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A person from the University of the West of Scotland’s Lanarkshire campus has tested positive for coronavirus.

It is understood the patient – from the base at Hamilton International Technology Park – was confirmed as having the COVID-19 strain over the weekend.

The individual is now receiving treatment in hospital.

A joint statement from NHS Lanarkshire and the university said those who have had contact with the individual are showing no symptoms.

The statement reads: “NHS public health officials have notified the university that an individual at the Lanarkshire campus has tested positive for coronavirus.

“The individual is being treated in hospital and is giving no cause for concern.

“As a university community, we wish them a swift and full recovery.

“The person concerned had limited contact with a small group of individuals at the university.

“All have been contacted, are well and have no symptoms.

“We are fully aware and appreciate the concerns people have about coronavirus (COVID-19) at this time, however public health officials have reassured that the risk of contracting coronavirus from this individual is extremely low.”

The statement also made it clear that the university will remain open.

It continued: “In line with public health advice, all UWS campuses remain fully open and operational, and students and staff should attend as normal.

“The university continues to follow all necessary infection, prevention and precautions in line with public health guidance.

“Public health officials have also confirmed that students and staff should follow the most up-to-date healthcare advice which can be found on the NHS Inform website.

“The best way for people to protect themselves and others is to wash their hands regularly with soap and water, or use a sanitiser gel, regularly throughout the day.

“People should also avoid touching surfaces and then their mouth or eyes.”

The individual is among 18 other positive cases of COVID-19 in Scotland. The total for the UK as a whole has jumped to 273 with three people in England dying after contracting the virus.