Covid testing appeal after schools go back

NHS Highland's director of public health is appealing to the public to only book a Covid-19 test if they have symptoms.

 

It comes after a 'significant increase' in requests for testing across the Highland region since pupils returned to school in August.

 

Dr Tim Allison said: 'We have seen a sharp rise in the number of requests for tests since the schools have gone back, particularly from parents concerned about their children.

 

'Anyone with symptoms of Covid-19 should be tested. You can book a test for yourself, someone you care for or a child in your care but you only need to book a test if you have symptoms or you have been explicitly asked to get a test by our public health team.

 

'A test can be booked by calling 08000 282816 or visiting the NHS Inform website. You do not need to call NHS 24 to organise a test.'

 

To be tested you should be displaying symptoms such as a new, continuous cough, fever or loss of, or change in, sense of smell or taste. Testing should also be arranged in the first three days of symptoms appearing, although testing is effective until day five.

 

Dr Allison added: 'If someone in your household develops symptoms you will need to self-isolate but, unless you also have symptoms, there is no need for you to be tested unless you go on to develop symptoms. If you are contacted by Test and Protect to tell you that you are a close contact of someone with Covid-19, you do not require a test but you must isolate for 14 days. A test will not change the need to self-isolate.

 

'If you do develop Covid symptoms and are ill and worried about your health, you should call NHS 24 on 111. Please do not call NHS 24 unless you feel you need medical advice.

 

'I thank everyone for all their efforts as we continue to fight this virus. There is evidence of increasing transmission of Covid-19 across Scotland. Covid-19 is still here and it is important everyone continues to follow the national guidance to keep them and others safe.'

 

A Campbeltown pub was forced to close last Saturday after a customer who had been at the bar the night before received a positive Covid-19 test result. The pub was scheduled to re-open yesterday, after following government advice and adhering to all regulations.

 

To reduce the risk of catching the virus, people are being encouraged to follow five rules in the FACTS campaign:

 

 

• Face coverings in enclosed spaces,

 

• Avoid crowded places indoors or outdoors,

 

• Clean hands and hard surfaces regularly,

 

• Two metre physical distancing,

 

• Self-isolate and book a test if you have any of the symptoms of Covid-19.