Is coronavirus in Edinburgh? Why the government won’t reveal where in the Lothians coronavirus is confirmed

195 cases of Covid-19 in Scotland have been confirmed – with 30 in Lothian
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The number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in Scotland continues to rise.

There are now 195. The UK total is now up to 1,950. There have also been 60 fatalities in the UK.

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But is it likely to spread to the capital? Here’s what you need to know.

So far there are still no confirmed cases in Edinburgh – but is it likely to spread to the capital? Here’s what you need to know. PIC Ben Birchall/PA WireSo far there are still no confirmed cases in Edinburgh – but is it likely to spread to the capital? Here’s what you need to know. PIC Ben Birchall/PA Wire
So far there are still no confirmed cases in Edinburgh – but is it likely to spread to the capital? Here’s what you need to know. PIC Ben Birchall/PA Wire

Where in Scotland are the coronavirus cases?

The first case in Scotland was confirmed on Sunday 1 March and two more were confirmed on Wednesday 4 March.

On March 5 three new cases were confirmed.

Following the weekend there are now 36 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Scotland, eight of which are in the Lothian area.

27 cases of Covid-19 in Scotland have been confirmed – with seven in Lothian27 cases of Covid-19 in Scotland have been confirmed – with seven in Lothian
27 cases of Covid-19 in Scotland have been confirmed – with seven in Lothian

Ayrshire and Arran – 6

Borders – 7

Dumfries and Galloway – 1

Fife – 7

A mobile pop in testing centre for caronavirus has been set in Edinburgh's western general hospital.A mobile pop in testing centre for caronavirus has been set in Edinburgh's western general hospital.
A mobile pop in testing centre for caronavirus has been set in Edinburgh's western general hospital.

Forth Valley – 12

Grampian – 22

Greater Glasgow and Clyde – 49

Highland – 5

Lanarkshire – 21

Lothian – 30

Shetland – 15

Tayside – 20

We asked the Scottish Government whether they could be more specific on the location of coronavirus cases in Scotland.

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A spokesperson responded: “The Scottish Government provides a daily update at 2pm, which includes an up-to-date tally of test numbers and results, and the number of positive cases in each region.”

They did not clarify why the government doesn’t reveal the exact locations of coronavirus cases.

Where are people being tested in Scotland?

There are screening laboratories in Glasgow and Edinburgh and discussions are ongoing about opening a further site in Tayside.

Nicola Sturgeon said she’s confident Scotland’s facilities would be able to cope with rising demand and that work is underway to identify recently retired NHS staff as part of “contingency plans to encourage and ask those who have recently retired from the National Health Service to come back if that is required".

Has the disease spread to Edinburgh?

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There are 30 cases of coronavirus in Lothian, however it has not been confirmed whether these are in Edinburgh or elsewhere in the region.

Addressing the current situation amid the outbreak of Covid-19, Nicola Sturgeon said her government is still working to delay the spread and reduce the impact on the public and the NHS.

Speaking at First Minister's Questions, Ms Sturgeon said: "I think we all recognise and accept that it looks increasingly unlikely that we are going to be able to contain this outbreak indefinitely.”

Coronavirus: the facts

What is coronavirus?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What caused coronavirus?

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The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus, like others of its kind, has come from animals.

How is it spread?

As this is such a new illness, experts still aren’t sure how it is spread. But.similar viruses are spread in cough droplets. Therefore covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and disposing of used tissues straight away is advised. Viruses like coronavirus cannot live outside the body for very long.

What are the symptoms?

The NHS states that the symptoms are: a dry cough, high temperature and shortness of breath - but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. Look out for flu-like symptoms, such as aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose and a sore throat. It’s important to remember that some people may become infected but won’t develop any symptoms or feel unwell.

What precautions can be taken?

Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly. The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell. Also avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth unless your hands are clean.

Should I avoid public places?

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Most people who feel well can continue to go to work, school and public places and should only stay at home and self isolate if advised by a medical professional or the coronavirus service.

What should I do if I feel unwell?

Don’t go to your GP but instead call NHS 111 or look online at the coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and what to do next.

When to call NHS 111

NHS 111 should be used if you feel unwell with coronavirus symptoms, have been in a country with a high risk of coronavirus in the last 14 days or if you have been in close contact with someone with the virus.

Sources: World Health Organisation and NHS