| Good evening, Scotland's schools were a lot quieter than usual today as the government's closure scheme to help combat the spread of coronavirus came into force.
It is a strange and uncertain time for all of us but the best we can do is each do our own little part by heeding the advice of the government and medical experts.
One part we can all play is listen to the advice around social distancing. This really can make a difference and the more people abide by the advice then hopefully it will have the desired effect in slowing down the spread of the virus and the sooner this crisis will be over.
The team at The Scotsman continue to work hard to bring you all the facts as the epidemic continues.
Here are some of the day's main updates: - First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and Health Secretary Jeane Freeman today announced the creation of community hubs to deal with those who believe they have coronavirus symptoms. The NHS 24 number, 111, is now a national phoneline for those with coronavirus symptoms who will be put through to senior clinicians who will then decide whether they should be seen by a doctor.
- It was also revealed today that community pharmacists will perform an enhanced role to deal with the outbreak - supporting patients and reducing the pressure on other parts of the NHS through the extension of the Minor Ailment Service.
- Nicola Sturgeon said the advice the government was giving should not be “considered optional but rules we’re expecting people to comply with” to protect people and the NHS and reduce the number of deaths.
- You can find the government’s full, detailed guidance on social distancing here
- The government’s full list of people classed as ‘extremely vulnerable’, as well as guidance on shielding, can be found here
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