The Omicron variant of coronavirus has been detected in Ayrshire.
A single case has now been confirmed within the NHS Ayrshire & Arran health board.
71 cases of the new variant have been detected in Scotland since November 30.
Today Scottish Government data revealed that one case has been identified in the local health board.
It now means the Omicron variant which was first detected in South Africa is in eight health boards across Scotland, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has the highest number of cases with 27.
Latest data shows that 318 cases of COVID-19 have been detected in NHS Ayrshire & Arran.
Last week the health board encouraged all residents to take up the offer of a booster vaccine to protect themselves this Christmas.
The vaccine is now being offered to all eligible over-18s.
Ayrshire Live has contacted NHS Ayrshire and Arran for comment.
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