Two people in Shetland have tested positive for coronavirus, the Scottish government has confirmed.

The cases were first brought to light in a social media post on Monday before official confirmation came at 2pm.

The virus was detected following a recent trip to Italy and a third person who came into contact with the pair who recently returned from the high-risk country has now self-isolated, it is understood.

NHS Shetland released a statement on Monday afternoon to say they were working “nationally and locally with partner organisations to actively monitor two positive coronavirus cases”.

The statement added: “Clinicians have already begun contact tracing, the process of gathering details of the places they have visited and the people they have been in contact with since returning to the UK.

“Health protection teams will contact those who are at risk from the current cases – those who are not contacted are not at risk.”

The Shetland Times is also aware of another family who are self-isolating after two people became ill over the weekend.

NHS Shetland interim medical director Brian Chittick said: “While we recognise people may feel anxious about coronavirus, we would like to offer reassurance that we are taking all the necessary steps to try and contain the virus.”

Meanwhile, in a lunchtime announcement, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed five new cases of the novel coronavirus, bringing the national total to 23.

The Scottish government also issued new advice this morning including workplace advice.

Personal details of patients in Scotland who have tested positive for coronavirus are not released for patient confidentiality reasons.