NICOLA Sturgeon has announced a further 1905 Covid-19 cases in Scotland as she sent a stark warning to the nation.
The new infections were recorded over the past 24 hours, with a positivity rate of 15%.
The First Minister said the figures “illustrate the severity and urgency of the situation”.
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No new deaths were reported today, though registration offices were largely closed yesterday.
Over the Christmas period, 289 deaths were recorded among patients who had recently tested positive.
“We are now seeing a steeply rising trend of infections,” Sturgeon said as she addressed the Scottish Parliament.
“I am more concerned about the situation we face now than I have been at any time since March last year.”
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The First Minister announced that mainland Scotland would be placed into a full lockdown for the duration of January to combat the surge in cases.
An enforceable stay at home order will be in place from midnight tonight.
Island areas will remain in Level 3 restrictions, which will be kept under review.
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In the week from 23 to 30 December, the seven-day incidence of cases per 100,000 of the population increased by 65% - from 136 to 225. Test positivity has also risen sharply.
The next update on the numbers of Covid patients in hospital and intensive care will be published tomorrow.
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