Peterhead link in Orkney Covid-19 cluster
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Health authorities in Orkney who are dealing with a cluster of confirmed Covid-19 say there is now a link to a north-east fishing boat.
NHS Orkney said positive tests had been detected in a group of people who worked together and then travelled to various homes on the outer islands.
The fishing boat had sailed to Orkney from Peterhead.
It had also been to Scrabster in Caithness.
Highland, Grampian and Orkney health boards are now tracing contacts.
The NHS Orkney chief executive described the situation as a "significant number of cases in a small island community".
The board said earlier it was examining links with the 177 cases that are part of a cluster in Aberdeen.
Director of Public Health Louise Wilson said: "Following their identification, the individuals have been asked to self-isolate and we are tracing all of their contacts, who will also be asked to self-isolate as a precaution.
"All of the positive cases have mild symptoms.
"We are taking all necessary steps to contain this outbreak but it is vital people follow the FACTS guidance to limit the spread of the virus."
On Wednesday Peterhead Central School closed after a staff member tested positive with a second positive case confirmed today.
The school will remain closed for the rest of the week.
An Aberdeenshire Council spokesperson said: “A number of staff from Peterhead Central Primary School are currently self-isolating following the identification of a confirmed case of coronavirus within the school team.
“Test and Protect procedures have been followed and parents have been advised."
