Nine potential cases of Covid-19 have been discovered in Orkney.
The spike has sparked concern among health bosses and politicians. It is not known whether it was connected to the Aberdeen cluster.
NHS Orkney chief executive Mark Dickson has confirmed the latest cases – the first since June 15 – were connected to a single workplace, but did not say where.
He said: “NHS Orkney is responding to a significant Covid public health issue and we are profoundly concerned that the virus is spreading rapidly across our community.”
He added: “We believe there is a real risk to the people of Orkney, including those on the remote isles, and urge them to take care.
“NHS Orkney is taking this matter extremely seriously and working with partners, which include several NHS mainland boards, port authorities, ferry operators, environmental health and the Orkney Island Council.”
He urged anyone in Orkney who was showing symptoms to self-isolate immediately and seek a test.
He added: “If we can control this situation, we can avoid a situation like Aberdeen.
“I don’t think we are facing a cluster like that, but we need to do the right things and help protect ourselves and our loved ones.”
Anyone who has travelled and feel unwell is asked to contact the health authorities.
Orkney’s MSP Liam McArthur said: “This spike in new cases is deeply worrying.
“It is also a timely reminder that this virus remains a real threat and that we all have a responsibility to act with the upmost care to keep ourselves and our community safe.
“I know from my discussions with NHS Orkney that steps are being taken to trace all possible contacts related to this particular outbreak and ensure the necessary precautions are taken.
“I will also be speaking to the health secretary later today to establish what further action is being considered to contain this outbreak and minimise the risk to the public.
“In the meantime, I would echo the plea of NHS Orkney’s Interim Chief Executive, Michael Dickson that anyone experiencing symptoms urgently books a test and follows the relevant health guidance. If anyone who is sick needs to travel, please contact NHS Orkney immediately.”
