A fifth resident has died at a care home in Portree due to Covid-19.
A total of 57 people at Home Farm Care Home have now been diagnosed with the virus, including more than half of the facility’s 52-strong workforce.
A spokesman from home owners HC One said: “Our thoughts and sympathies are with the families who have lost loved ones from coronavirus and we are doing our utmost to support them during this difficult time.”
The outbreak marks the island’s first confirmed cases of the deadly virus since the pandemic began back in January.
Additional staff have been drafted in by the home to help deal with the outbreak, as half of their workforce remains in isolation.
Army-run testing is also being conducted on the island to help contain the outbreak.
Councillor Margaret Davidson, leader of the Highland Council, said: “I was profoundly sad to learn of the Coronavirus outbreak at Home Farm care home and my thoughts are very much with those who have lost loved ones.
“This is a very difficult and anxious time for residents, families and staff, but I have been heartened by the response from NHS Highland and the Council who have moved swiftly to support the community in Portree which has included the deployment by the Army of a mobile testing unit.”
She added: “Skye is a very close family community who will be supporting and caring for one another and I just wanted them to know that the Council and its partners will do all we can to help and support them at this time.”
