Increasing number of coronavirus cases linked to indoor hospitality venues in Fife, says the Kingdom's health board

NHS Fife is calling on people to be extra vigilant after a growing number of coronavirus cases linked to indoor hospitality venues across the Kingdom.

The health board is asking local people who have went to such places, particularly where time has been spent indoors, to be especially vigilant of the signs and symptoms of Covid-19.

They include a new, continuous cough, a fever, or a loss or change in the sense of smell or taste.

Should anyone develop any of those established symptoms of the virus, then they should self-isolate immediately and book a test as soon as possible.

There has been a "sharp and sudden" rise in the number of people getting Covid-19 after spending time in bars and other hospitality venues across the region.

Dr Joy Tomlinson, NHS Fife’s Director of Public Health, said: "For much of the coronavirus pandemic, we have seen lower rates of Covid-19 in Fife than many other parts of Scotland.

"With a trend of rising cases here in Fife, it’s important that we do all we can to keep transmission of the virus as low as we can.

"With the easing of restrictions over recent weeks, we expected to see an increase in Covid-19 as people spend more time with others.

"We have, however, seen quite a sharp and sudden increase in the number of people acquiring Covid-19 after spending time in bars and other hospitality venues in Fife.

"We are asking people, especially those visiting hospitality venues in Fife, to be especially vigilant of the symptoms of Covid-19.

"It’s as vital as ever that we follow the FACTS public health guidance - this means wearing appropriate face coverings, avoiding crowded places, cleaning hands and surfaces, remaining two metres apart wherever possible.

"Most important of all, if you develop any of the well-known symptoms of Covid-19, it is vital that you self-isolate and book a test as soon as you can."