THE number of positive Covid-19 cases in East Lothian is decreasing but figures from Public Health Scotland show that they remain among the highest in Scotland, with the county recording its first deaths from the virus for more than three months.

Between July 11 and 17, a total of 355 positive cases were recorded in the county, giving a seven-day positive rate per 100,000 people of 331.5. The test positivity rate is 9.4 per cent.

These latest figures remain among the highest in Scotland, with East Lothian now sitting fourth. Midlothian takes the top spot, followed by Dundee City in second and Edinburgh in third.

Prestonpans West leads the way with the most cases in East Lothian at 31, followed close behind by Tranent North, which recorded 31 cases, and Haddington South with 29.

All other parts of the county recorded between four and 23 cases each between the same seven-day period.

East Lothian has also recorded its first Covid-19 related deaths since the end of March. Three were recorded on July 6.

Regarding vaccinations, 80,021 residents over the age of 18 have received one dose of a coronavirus vaccine, or 93.9 per cent.

A total of 59,596 people have received two doses, or 69.9 per cent of the county.

All residents over the age of 55 have received at least one dose of a vaccine, with almost all 55-59 year olds having received two. More than three quarters of those aged 18-29 have now received one dose.

Of those aged 50-54, 96.5 per cent have received one dose, with the number 90.4 per cent for 40-49-year-olds, 87.8 per cent for 30-39-year-olds, and 76.1 per cent for 18-29 year olds.