NHS Borders is encouraging people to follow “good hand hygiene” after the region recorded 11 cases of coronavirus in five days.

In a statement issued at 6.08pm today (Friday, September 11), the health board wrote that 11 cases were identified between Monday and today.

Scottish Government statistics, published today, show that the Borders has registered at least one case every day for the past three weeks, bringing the total to 395 since March.

An outbreak in Hawick began last month and more cases have been identified in the town in recent days.

NHS Borders’ associate director of public health, Keith Allan, said: “Although the risk of catching COVID-19 in the Borders remains very low, as always it is vital that everyone plays their part in minimising the risk of transmission of this virus.

“This includes maintaining good hand hygiene and following the guidance on physical distancing.

“If you develop any symptoms of COVID-19 which are a new continuous cough, a fever/high temperature (37.8C or greater) and/or a loss of, or change in, sense of smell or taste you should self-isolate immediately and visit NHS Inform or phone 0800 028 2816 to book a test.

“Whilst you wait for your test all of your household members should also self-isolate.

“It is essential that everyone follows the Scottish Government guidance and public health advice available at NHS Inform."