Patients have tragically died following a coronavirus outbreak at Ayr hospital.

The virus spread to at least three wards during the weekend, it is understood. 

Both staff and patients have been infected and one ward is still closed. 

Health workers who have tested positive are now self-isolating at home while patients are being treated in a specialist Covid ward. 

Medical Director Dr Crawford McGuffie said: “NHS Ayrshire & Arran can confirm that a number of cases connected to wards within University Hospital Ayr have tested positive for Covid-19.

“Affected staff, patients and their families have been informed. Sadly, a number of patients have died and our condolences are with the families.”

Dr McGuffie added: “Patients who tested positive for Covid-19 have been transferred to a dedicated Covid-19 ward and continue to be cared for with the appropriate infection control measures in place including enhanced environmental disinfection.

“Staff who have tested positive have been excluded from duty and told to isolate at home in line with national Test and Protect requirements. One ward is currently closed to admissions, and restrictions are in place in three other wards.”

The NHS did not confirm how many people had lost their lives or the numbers of positive cases linked to the outbreak.

Dr McGuffie said: “We appreciate this is a very worrying time. However, we would like to assure members of the public that every measure is being taken to protect patients and staff.

“To respect and maintain patient confidentiality it is not possible to release any further information at this time.”

The health board has notified Antimicrobial Resistance and Healthcare Associated Infection Scotland (ARHAIS) of the incidents.

Dr McGuffie reminded people of the virus symptoms, which are a new persistent cough; high temperature; and or loss of taste and smell.

It is recommended anyone who has the symptoms should book a test and self-isolate immediately.