New figures have revealed Covid rates are growing rapidly in East Ayrshire and Dumfries and Galloway.

According to the Covid daily dashboard, Dumfries and Galloway and East Ayrshire have some of the worst rates in Scotland. In regard to the seven day positive rate per 100,000 population, Dumfries and Galloway was sitting at 533.4 as of 13 November.

East Ayrshire’s seven day positive rate per 100,000 population was 497.5 up to 13 November.

South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth said the rises are more proof that the pandemic is not over and that people across the south of Scotland must remain vigilant.

Colin Smyth 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.”