ALL schools and nurseries in Scotland will close "by the end of the week", the First Minister has announced.
During a press conference this afternoon, Nicola Sturgeon revealed a third person has died from the virus in Scotland.
There are now 227 confirmed cases in the country - a rise of 32 people from yesterday.
Regarding schools, the First Minister said there are still many issues to be ironed out around school closure including pupils who currently receive free school meals.
Ms Sturgeon said: “We must not cut adrift vulnerable children.
"At this stage, I cannot promise that they (schools) will reopen before the summer holidays."
She said the "very difficult" decision would change society and the economy.
However it had been driven by updated scientific advice and the reality on the ground.
Many parents have already started withdrawing pupils on their own initiative.
Ms Sturgeon said there could be “a lot of local flexibility” with councils possibly approaching school closures differently.
She added: “There will not necessarily be a one size fits all approach.”
Chief medical officer Dr Catherine Calderwood said the 227 figure was likely to be a significant underestimate.
She added that the Scottish Government is investigating “a very simple dip stick test” for coronavirus - which is currently being developed.
She says “that would allow that mass testing” that wouldn’t put pressure on labs. They would be don’t by individuals at home.
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