Schools face extended closure and "stay at home" guidance could be tightened to halt an significant spread of coronavirus across Scotland, a leading scientist has warned. Professor Linda Bauld, chair of public health at Edinburgh University's Usher Institute, said the country should brace for "additional measures" unless infection rates fuelled by a new strain of the virus can be contained. Bauld raised doubt that face-to-face teaching in schools can resume as planned on January 18 and warned that "stronger" stay at home guidance may be necessary. Some workplaces currently open will need to close, she added, and travel restrictions will remain essential. The new variant does not appear to be more severe but data suggesting greater transmissibility "looks convincing", Bauld told the Sunday Times.