Jackie Baillie, MSP for Dumbarton Constituency, has raised concerns about the high number of positive cases and deaths that are still occurring in West Dunbartonshire.

In the week to 15 August, West Dunbartonshire had the joint highest deaths with five people having lost their lives from COVID-19. In the same week, the number of positive cases per 100,000 of the population of West Dunbartonshire sat at 258.1, with a positivity rate of 8.3%. This compares to the Scottish average of 193.2 cases per 100,000 people and a positivity rate of 6.7%.

Jackie Baillie MSP said:

“It is certainly cause for serious concern that our community has the highest death rate in Scotland, alongside some other areas. First and foremost my condolences go to the friends and loved ones of all those who have lost their lives.

“As society reopens, these deaths and the number of positive cases in the area are a stark reminder that the virus is still a threat to us and caution should continue to be taken.

“This rise in cases in the week that schools are going back and many people return to office requires urgent action from the government to ensure that the virus can be controlled and supressed.

“As ever, my thanks goes to all the frontline workers who, 18 months on, are still working tirelessly to keep us safe.”