Nicola Sturgeon says even stricter measures could be brought in to tackle the covid-19 outbreak across the country as the number of Scots who have been diagnosed jumped to 322.
The First Minister revealed the new total of confirmed coronavirus cases, up by 56 from Thursday, as she gave a briefing.
It comes as schools across Scotland closed down to help deal with the spread of the disease.
This is an increase from 266 on Thursday, when Scotland’s death toll doubled to six.
Speaking at the press conference Mrs Sturgeon told all Scots who can work from home “should work from home”.
She also said the Scottish Government was willing to use stricter measures to tackle the covid-19 pandemic – though she slammed the use of the word “lockdown” to describe this.
Mrs Sturgeon added: “Don’t come to work if you can work more safely from home. If you can work from home then you should.”
When asked if the government would be imposing restrictions she said the need for additional measures is “under review”.
“I am saying very clearly it should not be assumed that what we are asking people to do now will not become more strict and difficult in the future,” she said.
She added the government had the ability to “close down pubs and restaurants” and would consider these steps “if necessary”.
Scotland’s chief medical officer Dr Catherine Calderwood said if current measures did not prove effective, then several months down the line health chiefs would have to look at measures which “become more restrictive”.
She said: “I don’t think there are many certainties on the progress of this disease any more.”
Mrs Sturgeon also slammed panic-buying and asked Scots to remain calm and support smaller shops and businesses.
She said: “Finally I want to thank the vast majority of people who have been sensible in their shopping this week.
“I know that some people have felt the need to stockpile food. My clear advice is don’t do that. There is no need to do that.
“If everyone remains sensible there is enough to go around. While it is tempting to get everything from the supermarket, support for locals businesses can be a lifeline.”
On Thursday there were 27 covid-19 in Tayside and nine in Fife. Updated figures will be released later on Friday.
