South Uist coronavirus cases rise to 17

A total of 17 individuals in South Uist have tested positive for the virus that causes COVID-19 infection.
The number of positive coronavirus cases in South Uist has risen to 17.The number of positive coronavirus cases in South Uist has risen to 17.
The number of positive coronavirus cases in South Uist has risen to 17.

Test and Protect actions are continuing. The individuals are from the southern end of the Uists.

Contact tracing is ongoing. Close contacts are being advised to self-isolate and other identified contacts are being followed up and given appropriate advice.

NHS Wetsern Isles would ask that individuals who are tested through Test and Protect do not contact their GP or hospital for their results. If tested, you will be contacted directly with the result.

Please ensure that you provide accurate contact details and self isolate (i.e. do not leave your house) until you receive your result. If your result is positive, you will be required to self isolate for 10 days.

A Problem Assessment Group (PAG) met on Friday and an Incident Management Team (IMT) met today and is working with Scottish Government, and Public Health Scotland to provide advice and support.

NHS Western Isles Director of Public Health, Dr Maggie Watts said: “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 like to stress that individuals who have been identified as close contacts and advised by the Test and Protect team to self isolate should complete their period of self isolation, even if they subsequently have a test for COVID-19 and test negative.

“To respect and maintain patient confidentiality, we will not be releasing any further details at this time.

“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.”

FACTS

F – Face coverings. These should be used in shops and on public transport (buses, trains and taxis)

A – Avoid crowded places.

C – Clean your hands frequently, using water & soap whenever possible.

T – Two metres – observe physical distancing.

S – Self-isolate and book a test if you are suffering from COVID-19 symptoms.