Barra and Vatersay move into level four lockdown from midnight tonight.

Nicola Sturgeon said that those shops and businesses affected could now apply for financial relief as a result of the lockdown.

Ms Sturgeon said: “There is a significant concern that without additional measures the outbreak could spread more widely across the Western Isles and there is also concern but the impact on care home and clinical services.”

“For these reasons the National Incident Management Team in consultation with the local authority and the local health board has decided that Barra and Vatersay…should move from level 3 to level 4.

This means, Ms Sturgeon continued, “that the same lock-down restrictions already in place on mainland Scotland, including the ‘stay at home accept for essential purposes’ requirement will apply there too. This change - which we will keep under review - applies only to Barra and Vatersay and not at this stage to the Western Isles more generally.

The First Minister added that affected businesses on the islands, including hospitality and non-essential retail which will be required to close, will be eligible for business support.

Ms Sturgeon concluded: “As the outbreak comes under control, which we hope will happen relatively soon, we will of course consider how quickly Barra and Vatersay can move back to level 3.”

As the Gazette reported this morning, numbers of those who have tested positive on Barra had reached 40, with one positive test recorded for the Stornoway area and which NHSWI chief executive advised was related to mainland travel. In addition there are five positive cases on Benbecula according to NHS Scotland statistics during January.

There are currently 145 close contacts identified in relation to the Barra outbreak who are now self isolating as a result of being contacted by Test and Protect.

It is believed that the numbers on Barra equate to 10 per cent of the island population.

A spokesman for NHSWI said: “These figures outline the importance of compliance with restrictions and safety measures to ensure that the virus does not spread further throughout the community.

“NHS Western Isles wishes to stress the vital importance that individuals with symptoms, regardless of how mild, self isolate IMMEDIATELY and arrange a test. Please do not assume that any symptoms are that of a cold or other winter virus.

“Be vigilant for all symptoms, in particular loss or change of taste or sense of smell (which has been a common factor in this outbreak).

“We would also alert individuals to the potential risks of using items of high levels of contact (e.g. cash machines). We would advise the use of cards where possible. Where this is not possible, use hand sanitizer before and after using the cash machine, as well as disinfectant wipes before and after use where possible.

“We would remind individuals to avoid regular trips to the supermarket and keep shopping trips to a minimum and as necessary. Shop alone, wear a mask at all times and hand sanitise before and after shopping. Respect other shoppers/shop workers by ensuring you maintain a two metre distance from others at all times.

“To access testing, contact 01851 601151 or e-mail [email protected]. Alternatively contact NHS24 on 111.”