The shielding of those who are most at risk if they become infected with Covid-19 should continue until 31 July, the first minister has said.

The Scottish government’s original advice was to shield until 18 June, but this has now been extended until “at least” the end of July.

However, Nicola Sturgeon said the group would be able to go outside for exercise from 18 June.

Currently the advice is to stay at home and not go outside at all.

There are about 180,000 people in Scotland who are shielding because they are at the greatest risk of becoming seriously ill or dying from the virus.

It includes people who have had certain types of cancer and those who have severe respiratory conditions or who have received solid organ transplants.

Those who are affected will receive a letter from the chief medical officer explaining the latest guidance.