THIS week 32 new cases of coronavirus have been recorded in the Borders.

According to Scottish Government figures, the region's total number of cases since March 7 now stands at 447 (correct at 2pm on September 18), compared with 415 on Monday (September 14).

NHS Borders' associate director of public health, Keith Allan, said: "In common with the rest of Scotland and the UK in general we are continuing to see increased numbers of cases of COVID-19 across the Borders."

This latest increase in cases comes after 20 new cases were reported last weekend (September 11 to 14).

Figures from the Scottish Government suggest the number of virus cases per 100,000 in the Borders is 45.0.

Meanwhile, NHS Borders has warned people to only travel across the border into Northumberland when necessary.

In a statement issued on September 17, Dr Allan said: "We recommend that people in the Borders should only be travelling to Northumberland for essential purposes such as school or work, and they should be extra vigilant."

READ MORE: NHS Borders will not say locations of new cases

The health board advises that if you experience one or more of the symptoms of COVID-19, you should self-isolate immediately and book a test.

Dr Allan added: "As we continue to see a rise in cases it remains really important that people follow up-to-date advice and guidance in relation to infection prevention and control.

“The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to follow the FACTS:

  • Face coverings in enclosed spaces
  • Avoid crowded places
  • Clean hands and surfaces regularly
  • Two-metre distancing; and Self-isolate and book a test if you have symptoms

“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.

“A new continuous cough is defined as if you are coughing a lot for more than one hour, or you have been coughing a lot three or more times in 24 hours.

"If you normally have a cough, it may be worse than usual.

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

"This is really important to prevent potential spread of this highly contagious virus.”