Scottish surveillance testing system for Covid-19 begins

Testing of patients in Scotland with flu-like symptoms is to begin as part of measures to combat Covid-19.

A surveillance network of 41 GP practices will submit samples, even if patients have not travelled to an area affected by the new coronavirus.

The plan makes use of an existing system recording the spread of flu and is described as a "precautionary step".

Testing is also to be introduced for patients admitted to critical care units with pneumonia.

The convenor of Holyrood's education committee Clare Adamson has, meanwhile, warned parents to think about what they would do if schools had to close.

She said: "If there's a significant outbreak in our area it may be that a school will have to close - maybe only for a few days for a deep clean.

"There may also have to be special measures put in to support pupils that are sitting exams and that might have a bigger impact on other areas of the school."

Chief Medical Officer Dr Catherine Calderwood said: "Scotland is well-prepared for a significant outbreak of coronavirus but there is currently no treatment or vaccine. Early detection measures will be vital in helping to prevent the spread of the virus in the event of an outbreak.

"Hospitals and GP surgeries will now conduct tests on some patients with coughs, fevers or shortness of breath - regardless of whether they have travelled to a place where the virus is known to be spreading."

She added: "Not everyone with flu will be tested, but this is a sensible step to take as a precautionary measure to give us an early warning of community transmission."

As of Saturday, 630 tests had been carried out in Scotland on people who might have been exposed to the disease.

All tests so far have been negative.

There have been 23 patients found to be suffering from Covid-19 in the UK as a whole.