The number of Ayrshire patients with coronavirus has increased to seven, as a school closes.

There are now 171 people confirmed with being infected with the COVID-19 virus in Scotland.

The death toll at time of printing is 35, with one in Scotland.

Across the UK 1,543 people have tested positive for the potentially lethal virus.

Willowbank School, Kilmarnock, has closed for 48 hours for a 'deep clean' following advice from NHS Ayrshire and Arran.

A statement read: “This is a precautionary measure to safeguard the wellbeing of pupils and staff.

“A further update will be provided in due course with the school expected to reopen on Wednesday.”

Action has been taken to curb the spread of COVID-19.

GPs have cancelled appointments instead opting for online or telephone consultations.

Numerous events across Ayrshire have been postponed, following the Scottish Government’s advice that gatherings of 500 people or more should be cancelled.

Panic buying has led to some struggling to find the essentials including toilet paper and pain killers.

Current advice is for those with symptoms, a new continuous cough and/or a fever, to self-isolate for seven days.

A COBRA meeting is being held today where further action is being discussed.

Both the Scottish and UK government plan to hold daily briefings as the fight against the pandemic continues.

If you believe you may have the coronavirus, you should not go to your GP, any pharmacy or hospital.

Phone your GP practice or NHS 24 (111) if you have returned from a category 1 area within the past 14 days and developed a high temperature, cough or shortness of breath since your return.

For general information call 0800 028 2816.