An Ayr nursery has closed over links to coronavirus cases. 

Doonfoot Primary’s nursery will stay shut for 14 days after two staff members reportedly tested positive for Covid-19.

The early years centre underwent a deep clean on Sunday but bosses decided to close the doors as a precaution. 

Children and staff at risk of catching the virus have been contacted by the NHS and told to stay at home for two weeks.

Doonfoot Primary remains open, the council has confirmed. 

Lynne McNiven, Director of Public Health, said:“NHS Ayrshire Arran’s Health Protection Team, along with South Ayrshire Council, can confirm that a very small number of cases connected to an early years establishment in South Ayrshire have tested positive for Covid-19.

“We have immediately undertaken a careful risk assessment to identify any children and staff who may have had contact with the confirmed cases.

“These individuals are being contacted by the Test and Protect team and told to self-isolate at home for 14 days.”

The health board director added: “As an additional precautionary measure, the early years establishment will close for 14 days.

“We appreciate this is a very worrying time.

“However, we would like to assure people that every measure is being taken to protect children and staff.”

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

Over the last 24 hours, 38 new cases of the virus have been confirmed in Ayrshire & Arran bringing the region’s total to 1,684.

There are fewer than five people with Covid-19  in the area’s hospitals today. 

The symptoms of coronavirus are a new cough, high temperature and loss of taste and smell. 

People are asked to wear face coverings in shops and public transport, avoid crowded places, clean hands often and observe two metres distancing.

Health experts recommend residents to book a test and self-isolate if they show any symptoms.