THE number of positive coronavirus cases in East Lothian has increased for the fifth time this month; however, the county’s seven-day rate per 100,000 of the population remains one of the lowest in Scotland.

From November 15-21, East Lothian recorded 57 positive cases; three cases were recorded in the county yesterday (Monday).

In that same time period, East Lothian’s seven-day positive rate per 100,000 of the population was 53.2 – marginally higher than the 49.5 it was yesterday.

Both numbers are lower than what they were a week ago (November 8-14), when 66 positive cases were recorded and the seven-day rate was sitting at 61.6.

Figures also remain considerably lower than what they were a month ago (October 15-21), when the seven-day rate was 76.6 in East Lothian and 82 cases were recorded.

Edinburgh’s seven-day rate is now sitting at 84.6, Midlothian's at 98.4 and West Lothian's at 171.5.

As well as remaining the lowest in the Lothian region, East Lothian’s seven-day rate is the eighth lowest in Scotland, behind Shetland, Orkney, Na h-Eileanan Siar, Highland, Moray, Dumfries and Galloway, and Argyll and Bute.

Data from Public Health Scotland shows that only two parts of the county are currently areas of concern.

In the seven days up to November 21, Pinkie Braes recorded between one and four cases, giving it a seven-day positive rate per 100,000 of the population of 100 or more.

Added to the list today (Tuesday) was Prestonpans East, which recorded five cases over the same period, giving it a seven-day rate that is also above 100.

Across Scotland today, 771 new cases were reported, 39 of which were in Lothian, with 41 new deaths recorded among those who had previously tested positive.