A PSYCHIATRIC unit at Inverclyde Royal has been closed to new admissions following a coronavirus outbreak.

Health bosses have confirmed there are a number of Covid-19 cases at the Langhill Clinic but told the Telegraph that they wouldn't say how many, on the grounds of patient confidentiality.

The Langhill Clinic has 20 acute mental health admission beds and an eight-bed intensive care unit.

Bosses say that they want to 'thank staff for their hard work as they continue to care for patients in such challenging circumstances as we treat those impacted by Covid-19'.

A spokesman for NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde added: "Following identification of Covid-19 cases within the Langhill Clinic, we have taken additional steps to protect our patients.

"The facility remains closed to new admissions.

"All staff are being tested twice weekly and patients who remain negative are re-tested every four days until the unit reopens.

"Our staff continue to adhere to strict infection prevention and control guidelines during this time.

"The safety of patients and our staff is our priority and we always assess and ensure that transport arrangements are in line with clinical and infection control guidance."

This is the second outbreak on the wider Inverclyde Royal estate in a matter of weeks.

The Telegraph revealed last month how four patients at continuing care hospital Orchard View had tragically died after contracting the virus.

Sources said that at least 12 people had been infected amid fears that more lives could be lost, with other unwell patients in palliative care.

The outbreak in the unit's Willow Ward was identified on February 3 and it has been closed since.

Orchard View provides care for adults and older people, with a focus on dementia and adults with mental health problems.

Management at NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde have offered their sincere condolences to the families of loved ones who have passed away and stated that staff and patients were being tested regularly.