NHS Highland’s health protection team have confirmed this week that an outbreak of 13 cases of COVID-19 in Kilcreggan have been linked to a private event at the Cove and Kilcreggan Bowling Club.

A health board incident management team are working with Argyll and Bute Council to investigate and manage the outbreak. Those who have came into close contact with someone who has tested positive are being contacted by NHS Test and Protect and advised to self-isolate.

It’s also been confirmed by the health board that a staff member at Kilcreggan Primary School has tested positive in a separate incident.

Commenting Jackie Baillie MSP for Helensburgh and Lomond said:

“This is deeply worrying news for the local community in Cove & Kilcreggan and it is still an evolving situation.

“There is no doubt that the outbreak at the bowling club will have hit the local community hard, many people are being advised to self-isolate, and I urge the local community to follow the advice given by NHS Highland.

“In the case of Kilcreggan Primary School, Argyll & Bute Council has confirmed that the member of staff is now self-isolating and anyone who has been in close contact with the staff member is being traced. The latest advice from Argyll & Bute Council is that if your child is not exhibiting symptoms and no other member of your household is either, then it is safe for them to return to school.

“This outbreak is an important reminder that even in our rural communities it is essential that public health advice on Covid-19 such as physical distancing, wearing face coverings in enclosed spaces and regularly cleaning your hands is followed.”