Covid update: Positive cases rise again as First Minister addresses the student population
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In the last 24 hours Scotland recorded a total of 558 positive cases, which equates to 9.5 per cent of those tested.
The highest figure was recorded again in NHS Greater Glasgow with 255 cases, NHS Lothian saw 119 and NHS Lanarkshire 61 with the rest spread around the country.
NHS Grampian recorded a further 12 positive cases while NHS Highland saw 15 cases.
Speaking in her daily breifing the First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: "Although these figures are impacted by the University outbreaks, not withstanding this no one should be under the impression that it is just a university problem.
"Transmission is increasing across the country and started before universities returned."
Speaking to the student body directly and parents she said: The government is having to make some really tough decisions and we are not immune to the impacts ourselves.
"I am so heart sorry that this time of your lives is being made so tough, especially those living away from home for the first time.
"It is also a time of adjustment and homesickness, which is the case every year but is much more difficult this year.
"You don't deserve to be facing this and it is not your fault.
"The quicker we get it under control, the quicker you can enjoy a normal student life.
"But we all have to play out part in tackling this.
"Everybody is feeling the effects of this."
She explained: "What we are asking you to do is in shared accommodation don't socialise with those who are not in your social group.
"We know this is hard because of the way you live in accommodation, but it can spread easily in indoor domestic environments.
"Please stay out of pubs and cafes this weekend (only), staying away this weekend means that with the exposure people have had, cases will continue to rise, but this will help to stem that.
"After this weekend students will be on the same rules as everyone else.
"We are also asking you to download the test and protect app - it is a good way of alerting people you may not know.
"If your being asked to self-isolate please follow that advice.
"In all of this your university has to be looking after you and I have spoken to many of them today on this matter.
"We are aware for self-isolating that many want to go home - that is a difficult balancing act - it may have implications for your family if you test positive.
"It is our aim to issue guidance on this over the weekend.
"Help is there, please ask for it."
