Test and Trace is key weapon in fight against spread in Western Isles communities

With 17 confirmed cases in South Uist and Eriskay, Mr MacNeil has written to NHS Western Isles Chief Executive Gordon Jamieson and Cabinet Secretary for Health and Sport Jeanne Freeman seeking detail on the testing programme and, in particular, the possibility of asymptomatic testing.

Currently 60 to 80 per cent of Covid carriers are asymptomatic and can unknowingly spread the virus.

Mr MacNeil welcomed the increase in testing figures in Na h-Eileanan an Iar which currently stands at 2886 but stressed that even those who return a negative test should ensure they proceed with isolation.

He drew attention to the successful programme of testing, quarantining and testing asymptomatics in the Faroe Islands where the virus has been repressed.

He said: “The Faroe Islands have twice beaten a Coronavirus outbreak through an aggressive programme of testing, quarantining and testing asymptomatics.

“I would suggest a similar level of testing around South Uist and Eriskay, not letting the 60-80 per cent who will be asymptomatic carry on their business.

“If people suspect they have even the slightest symptoms, in smell or taste, to book a test because ultimately testing and finding the virus is the way we beat the virus.”

Mr MacNeil added that thoughts of all the communities of Na h-Eileanan an Iar are with those in South Uist and Eriskay affected by this outbreak.