Nicola Sturgeon 'seriously concerned' at coronavirus test results backlog

It comes as fresh lockdown restrictions are imposed.

Nicola Sturgeon has said she's seriously concerned at a coronavirus test results backlog.

The First Minister highlighted the issue at her daily briefing this afternoon.

The backlog is reflected in today's COVID-19 numbers with 70 new cases being discovered across Scotland. The total for the nation now stands at 22,749.

In recent days, the country has reported hundreds of positive tests.

Of the 70 new cases, 10 have been recorded in Ayrshire and Arran. The total for the region now stands at 1,470.

Scotland's death toll remains at 2,499 with no new deaths for five days.

The news comes as new lockdown rules have been introduced across the country.

The First Minister said: "Today’s numbers, both the overall results reported through the UK-wide system and the number of positive cases, are lower than they have been in recent days and we believe that they are not yet complete.

"We understand other parts of the UK are experiencing similar issues this morning and we are seeking to resolve these urgently.

"However, it’s important that I am frank that we now have a very serious concern that the backlog of test results being faced by the UK lab network – which the Glasgow Lighthouse Lab is part of – is starting to impact on the timeous reporting of Scottish results.

"We’ve been raising these concerns with the UK Government in recent days and over the weekend the health secretary managed to resist a move to limit access to testing slots at mobile testing unit and regional testing centres.

"However, this apparent delay in turnaround is causing us concern and therefore we will be seeking to escalate these discussions with the UK Government over the course of today."

Symptoms of coronavirus...

The symptoms of coronavirus are:

• a cough
• a high temperature
• shortness of breath
• a loss of taste and smell

But these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness.

The symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common, such as cold and flu.

How to avoid catching or spreading coronavirus...

• wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds
• always wash your hands when you get home or into work
• use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
• 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 straight away and wash your hands afterwards
• try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell
• do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean

If you think you may have the coronavirus, do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. Call 111 if you need to speak to someone.