South Uist care home and nursery staff are close contacts of Western Isles’ Covid-19 cases

As part of the identification of cases of COVID-19 in South Uist and due to care home staff being identified as close contacts, the local Problem Assessment Group (PAG) has advised testing of all staff and residents of Taigh a’Chridhe Uile Naomh (TACUN).

The care home has suspended admissions, discharges and visiting for the present.

Care home staff are routinely tested as a matter of course, however, on the advice of the local Health Protection Team, both residents and employees are currently being tested or re-tested.

All appropriate actions to ensure the continued safety of residents and employees of the care home are being taken in line with Scottish Government and Health Protection guidance and advice, and all staff, residents and residents’ families will continue to be kept informed.

In addition, due to nursery staff being identified as close contacts and asked to self-isolate for 14 days, Cothrom Nursery will be closed until further notice.

NHS Western Isles can confirm that contact tracing of the three individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 infection is ongoing. Close contacts are being advised to self-isolate and other identified contacts are being followed up and given appropriate advice.

The individuals have mild symptoms that are being managed at home.

NHS Western Isles Director of Public Health, Dr Maggie Watts said: “Following the identification of these positive results, the individuals involved have been asked to self isolate for ten days from onset of symptoms and we are tracing all their contacts, who are also being advised to self isolate for fourteen days from the date of their last contact with the case as a precaution.

“We would highlight to those contacted through Test and Protect to self isolate that they must complete their 14 day self isolation period, even in the event that they are subsequently tested, and test negative for COVID-19.

“We would like to reassure our local communities and visitors to the island that we are taking all necessary steps to contain the virus but it is vital that everyone in the Western Isles follows the current Scottish Government restrictions and FACTS guidance to limit any spread of the virus.”