Coronavirus contact tracing is underway at six schools in North Ayrshire after positive cases were confirmed.
Three secondary schools and three primary schools are affected, with one of them being Woodlands Primary School in Irvine.
A concerned parent at Woodlands PS contacted the Times but the identity of the other schools has not been released by the NHS.
NHS Ayrshire and Arran's Health Protection Team are contacting close contacts of confirmed cases to tell them to self-isolate at home for 14 days.
Joy Tomlinson, Joint Director of Public Health, said: "We appreciate this is a very worrying time. However, we would like to assure people that every measure is being taken to protect pupils and staff.
"To respect and maintain patient confidentiality it is not possible to release any further information at this time."
READ MORE: Irvine and Kilwinning coronavirus hot spots - here's where they are
Yesterday, the health board's Director of Public Health reminded people living in Ayrshire to follow the guidance issued by Scottish Government to help stop the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Ayrshire communities.
Lynne McNiven said: “As we are seeing across the country, COVID-19 has not gone away. While not yet at the same levels as at the peak of the pandemic, the numbers are on the rise. We are seeing small outbreaks across Ayrshire and Arran, which are affecting local businesses and education.
“The information we are getting through the contact tracing exercises being carried out by our local Test and Protect team shows that the virus is being given a chance to spread through households mixing.
“So, we need to make sure we are all following the Scottish Government guidance. In particular, do not meet people from any other households in your home or another person’s home socially, unless they are in your extended household.”
Ms McNiven said it is 'vital' that we follow the rules. She said if any one of us breaches this guidance, there is a significant risk that they could make family, friends and other close contacts unwell.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here