AN INVESTIGATION has been launched after a number of nursing staff at East Lothian Community Hospital tested positive for coronavirus.

NHS Lothian has confirmed it is looking into the "small cluster" of cases linked to the hospital and has introduced tighter controls.

The Courier understands that three member of staff tested positive for the virus.

Dr Tracey Gillies, NHS Lothian's medical director, said, “We are investigating a small cluster of Covid-19 cases associated with East Lothian Community Hospital.

"While the investigation is ongoing, infection prevention and control measures have been further enhanced and the situation is being closely monitored.

“Everyone should continue to be vigilant and aware of the symptoms of Covid-19 and take all precautions, such as maintaining physical distancing, regular hand washing and wearing a face covering where appropriate.

“Further information on Covid-19, including symptom checkers and general testing advice, is available on the NHS Inform online at nhsinform.scot”

Nearly 300 positive tests for Covid-19 have been confirmed in East Lothian since March, with eight new cases confirmed since the start of September.

Public Health Scotland has revealed that more than 11,600 tests have been carried out in the county, with the percentage of people testing positive at just 2.6 per cent.

The first positive test was taken on March 19 in the county, rising steadily to the 299th positive test taken on September 7.

The number of deaths, which have been recorded as people who died within 28 days of a positive Covid test, stands at 60 in the county.

The most up-to-date figure released for deaths which had Covid-19 mentioned on their death certificate is higher, at 82 recorded.