Rising Covid rates in East Ayrshire are giving one of the region's MSPs cause for concern.
According to the Covid daily dashboard, East Ayrshire has one of the worst rates in Scotland.
The seven-day positive rate per 100,000 population in East Ayrshire was 505.8 as of Sunday, November 14 and hit 544.4 earlier this month although is now below the 500 mark.
South Scotland Labour MSP Colin Smyth insists the number of cases recorded daily is further proof that the pandemic is not over – and that people must remain vigilant as we head into winter.
He said: “The rising level of Covid cases are very concerning.
“It is yet more proof that while restrictions have been eased and life has returned to some kind of normal, we’re not out of the woods yet where Covid is concerned.
“Right now, our hard-working local NHS boards are currently rolling out both Covid vaccine boosters, as well as flu jags and also trying to catch those people who are still needing their first or second vaccine shots.
“But at the same time, the NHS is battling with huge backlogs of patients, rising A&E waiting times and people being admitted with Covid, all on top of the usual winter pressures. It’s a perfect storm.
“In the first instance I would urge anyone who hasn’t already had a first or second dose of their Covid vaccine, or those due a booster, to get in touch with their local NHS and arrange this without delay.
“Secondly, people must continue to follow the advice about wearing face coverings where appropriate, consider testing regularly and be mindful of ventilation in indoor spaces.”
Don't miss the latest Ayrshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter here
