NHS Fife is providing an update on cases of COVID-19 with links to the University of St Andrews.

A total of 72 students and staff linked the University have tested positive in the period from 01 September 2020 to present (29/10). While there is evidence of a potential link between some cases, this figure also includes some sporadic cases which have resulted from prolonged close contact with positive cases out with the Fife Health Board area.

NHS Fife’s Health Protection Team is working closely with colleagues at the University of St Andrews to prevent further infection and mitigate the effect of any positive cases which do occur. Contact tracers from the Test and Protect Team continue to identify and trace the known contacts of the any positive cases so they can be instructed to self-isolate to prevent onward spread of the virus. 

While we are aware of limited student-to-student transfer of the virus in some areas, there is no evidence of widespread transmission within the university or indeed the wider community at this stage.

It is important that anyone experiencing the well-established symptoms of COVID-19, such as a high temperature; a new, continuous cough; or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste, should immediately self-isolate and arrange a test using the NHS inform website www.nhsinform.scot or by calling 0800 028 2816. 

A local online support hub has been created to provide information on testing for COVID-19 and updates on the pandemic. Visit: www.nhsfife.org/coronavirus