POSITIVE cases of the 'more infectious' Indian COVID variant have spread in Fife.

A total of 33 people in Fife are now confirmed to have tested positive for the B.1.617.2 variant of COVID-19 since late April, NHS Fife said this afternoon.

While the majority of those found to be confirmed reside in the Kirkcaldy area, a "small number of the cases" are known to live in other parts of Fife.

An NHS Fife spokesperson said: "Additional, intensive work is ongoing to identify those who have been in close contact with the positive individuals and instruct individuals to isolate in order to prevent further spread of the virus.

"Around a third of those who test positive for COVID-19 do not display any symptoms at all, and a large network of testing sites are available across Fife. The locations and operating hours of these venues is available at: nhsfife.org/communitytesting.

"The vast majority of cases of the B.1.617.2 variant continue to be amongst those living in the Smeaton, Hayfield, Bennochy, Valley and Templehall areas of Kirkcaldy and people living in these areas continue to be urged to get tested as soon as possible to help stop the spread of COVID-19 by finding cases that might otherwise be missed."

NHS Fife is urging anyone with or without symptoms of COVID-19 to get a test in an effort to reduce the spread of coronavirus within the Kingdom.

Dr Lorna Watson, consultant in Public Health Medicine, commented:

“The overall levels of COVID-19 in Fife remain stable currently, however, we have seen an increase in the proportion of those being confirmed cases of the B.1.617.2 variant over the last week or so. The variant is being monitored very closely across Scotland.

“The B.1.617.2 variant is known to be more infectious. Testing in the community is a vital part of preventing the virus from spreading and we need as many people as possible, particularly those living in the affected parts of Kirkcaldy, to visit one of the many community testing facilities available. Getting tested is free, you don’t need an appointment and you could potentially help prevent many more people becoming unwell with the virus.

“With the overall cases of COVID-19 having reduced over recent months, and the gradual easing of restrictions, it is easy to think that COVID-19 is no longer a threat but that could not be further from the truth. We must all remain vigilant and if we develop any of the symptoms of COVID-19 regardless of how mild, isolate immediately and arrange to get tested as soon as possible.

“It is also important that individuals take up the offer of vaccination when invited and ensure that they get both doses.”