PUBLIC health officials are urging people in the Wee County to remain vigilant following a “significant increase” in confirmed Covid-19 cases.

The virus is still “circulating widely in local communities”, explained Dr Graham Foster, director of public health at NHS Forth Valley, following a spike in reported cases last week.

On Friday, August 27, 316 cases were confirmed positive across the Forth Valley, a record figure.

The same day, a total of 6,835 new cases of the virus were reported across Scotland, again a record high.

Responding to an inquiry by the Advertiser, Dr Foster said: “There has been a significant increase in the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases across Scotland over the last week.

“This is partly due to a rise in the number of tests being carried out and an increase in the number of close contacts identified for each positive case due to people socialising and travelling more.

“This clearly shows the virus is circulating widely in local communities and I’d therefore encourage everyone to remain vigilant and take sensible steps to help protect themselves and others.”

While Scotland has moved beyond Level 0, people are still being advised to remain careful and cautious.

Residents are advised to meet outside where possible and to open windows when indoors.

Working from home, or adopting a hybrid mix of home and office working, is still the default.

People should still keep washing their hands regularly, covering their nose and moth when sneezing or coughing.

Dr Foster added: “I’d also like to encourage anyone who hasn’t yet received the Covid-19 vaccine to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

“You can do this at any drop-in clinic across Scotland and details can be found on NHS Board websites.

“If you have already received your first dose of the vaccine please return for your second to ensure you have the maximum level of protection and if you have any concerns about vaccination please visit NHS Inform for clear, clinically checked advice.

“I’d also urge people to take up the offer of regular Covid-19 testing to help prevent people without any symptoms from spreading the virus to others, especially more vulnerable people who are more at risk.”

Drop-in vaccination clinics have moved from Forth Valley College campuses as students returned for the academic year.

In the Wee County, a drop-in clinic was available on the weekend of August 28-29 at Clackmannanshire Community Healthcare Centre while the Pathfoot Building at nearby University of Stirling is hosting a clinic every day between 8.30am and 7pm.

People are also encouraged to carry out regular asymptomatic testing, visit bit.ly/2XNXgNJ for more details.