University of Edinburgh confirms Covid outbreak in Pollock Halls accommodation

Positive tests in Holland House have been reported


The University of Edinburgh have confirmed an outbreak of coronavirus at Pollock Halls student accommodation.

The number of confirmed cases is “small,” and anyone who has tested positive so far has been in contact with NHS Test and Protect.

Some of the positive tests are in Holland House, but it is not yet known if there are any positive tests elsewhere in Pollock or which block of Holland they are in.

An email was sent to all students this afternoon by Vice-Principal Colm Harmon confirming the outbreak and a letter has also been sent to anyone living in Pollock from NHS Lothian reminding them of official coronavirus advice.

The uni is asking anyone who has attended flat parties to be “vigilant” for any possible symptoms and for all students to continue following government rules around coronavirus and social distancing.

Harmon said in the email: “We are continuing to monitor the situation, keeping our students and staff informed as appropriate, and following all Scottish Government guidance.”

This follows confirmed reports last week of police being called to break up illegal parties and at Pollock as well as large outbreaks in halls in Glasgow last weekend. Over 120 people have tested positive (with a further 600 isolating) in one student village in Glasgow alone.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has asked students to avoid pubs, bars, and restaurants this weekend to help slow the spread whilst EUSA have closed all of their venues until Monday at 9am. Combined with the ban on visiting other households indoors, students are being advised to completely avoid socialising this weekend.

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