A total of 191 NHS Ayrshire staff have been self-isolating after testing positive for coronavirus, sparking calls for the health workers to be vaccinated as quickly as possible.

The number of healthcare workers affected during the second wave of the pandemic has increased from last week.

Last week the total number of staff self-isolating at home were 144, and that has now risen to 229.

Covid19 admissions to Ayrshire hospitals also dramatically increased this week.

All women being admitted to Ayrshire Maternity Unit will be tested for Covid

Dr Crawford McGuffie, medical director at NHS Ayrshire and Arran, said: "NHS Ayrshire and Arran has prepared extensively to deal with COVID-19 and continues to work to ensure we have the right resources, equipment and staffing in place.

"As of Friday, January 15, we currently have 191 staff self-isolating at home as a result of testing positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) and 38 staff self-isolating at home having been contacted by Test and Protect."

Conservative list MSP Jamie Greene said: "“Reports that 191 of NHS Ayrshire and Arran's staff have tested positive for Covid-19 and are now self-isolating are concerning.

“The Scottish Government must ensure that the health board is fully resourced in order to cope with the mounting challenges they are facing.

"This serves as a stark reminder of the need for all frontline healthcare workers to be vaccinated as soon as possible so that we can protect those most at risk from coronavirus.

“My thoughts are with the staff at NHS Ayrshire and Arran who are doing all they can to help manage the impacts of the virus and save lives – as ever I remain available to assist them and their families.”