The increase in cases of Covid-19 in the Falkirk area is partly due to increased testing and partly because of outbreaks in large workplaces such as factories and a bus depot.

The testing rate in the Forth Valley area is high compared with other health boards. We have recently deployed mobile units in Denny and Grangemouth and are keen to continue to try to identify asymptomatic cases, as the new variant is leading to higher transmission rates where outbreaks have occurred.

NHS Forth Valley Consultant in Public Health, Dr Jennifer Champion said:

“The new variant is much more infectious and once again I urge people to follow Government advice, particularly around keeping a 2 metre distance, and increased hand washing.

Wearing a mask does not mean that guidelines no longer apply; keeping to physical distancing is paramount in trying to stop the spread.

It is so important not to let your guard down, even for a minute, to avoid becoming infected. So please remain vigilant.”