On Tuesday, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon gave her first Covid briefing since Scotland moved to level 0 restrictions.

Scotland recorded a record high number of Covid cases on Tuesday.

South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth said: “The increase in virus figures we have seen across the south of Scotland in recent weeks remains a real concern and unfortunately, it is likely figures will continue to rise in the future. 

“Covid still has the potential to cause people real problems and while we have been living with this virus for a long time now, we still mustn’t become complacent. The one positive is the fact the vaccination programme has reduced the number of people who fall seriously ill due to the virus.

“While restrictions have been lifted and we’ve been urged to go about our lives as normal, we must be aware that the virus is still out there and is still dangerous.

“First and foremost, I would urge everyone to get vaccinated, there are drop in clinics across the region, and also to continue to wear face coverings where appropriate, practice good hand hygiene and socially distance where possible.”