THE FIRST case of the Omicron covid variant has been confirmed in Fife. 

It comes as the highest number of new cases of the variant were recorded in a day totalling 23, as of December 6.

There have now been 73 cases of Omicron confirmed across Scotland, according to the latest Scottish Government figures.

No information has been released on the severity of the illness experienced by those testing positive.

A small number of cases of the variant were first reported by South Africa to the international genomic database, GISAID on November 23.

This variant was designated B.1.1.529 the following day and has 32 spike mutations. 

Preliminary evidence suggests that due to the number of mutations, Omicron could increase the risk of reinfection and possibly cause other unfavourable changes in the epidemiology of COVID-19.

NHS Fife have reminded people of the key protections already in place that are essential in reducing the spread of COVID-19, following cases of the new Omicron variant being identified.

Supporting the Scottish Government’s Living Safely for Us All campaign, NHS Fife’s Director of Public Health, Dr Joy Tomlinson, encouraged people to play their part by stepping up their efforts to stop COVID19 spreading.  

The campaign reinforces the key guidance on how to stay safe, and how people can protect themselves, their loved ones and those around them, particularly those at highest risk in their community.   

This includes taking regular lateral flow tests, particularly before mixing with people from other households, and staying at home if the test is positive.  

If people have symptoms they should arrange for a PCR test, stay at home and wait for the results.  

People are being encouraged to meet others outdoors, let fresh air in if mixing with other households indoors, and work from home if possible.  

Other key protections include booking an appointment for the COVID-19 vaccine if you are eligible and not yet vaccinated, cleaning hands regularly, wearing a face covering where required, and self-isolating immediately if you have COVID-19 symptoms, and booking a PCR test.  

Dr Joy Tomlinson said: “We’re appealing to people to follow the advice in the Live safely for us all campaign.  It’s really important to follow the key COVID-19 protections already in place to help keep you and others safe and prevent the spread of this new variant.  

“If you are eligible and not yet vaccinated, booking an appointment to get your COVID-19 vaccine remains the best way to protect yourself from the virus. Everyone should also step up efforts to stay safe and follow the guidance in place, particularly testing before meeting up with others. This is vital in helping protect communities, and the NHS.”  

For more information on staying safe and protecting others, visit gov.scot/coronavirus