Eighth case of coronavirus reported in the Western Isles

The test was outwith NHS testing arrangements and the result was confirmed to the Islands’ health authority yesterday (Tuesday).

The individual, from Lewis, is currently self isolating.

NHS Western Isles can confirm that all the appropriate steps in terms of the Test and Protect guidance have been taken. The case is the first positive test reported since June 9th.

The news comes as Islanders were asked to play their part in helping stop the coronavirus spread, with Test and Protect information sent to every household.

People with symptoms - which include a new, persistent cough, high temperature or loss or change in taste or smell – are being urged to book a test immediately as part of the national effort to supress the virus.

Those who test positive will be asked to confidentially provide information to NHS Scotland contact tracers on the people they’ve been in close contact with.

Those contacted will be asked to isolate for 14 days and told how to request a test if symptoms develop.

Test and Protect is the next important step in fighting coronavirus, and people across the country are being asked to take these necessary steps to break the chains of transmission as lockdown restrictions ease.

The Test and Protect leaflet provides information on how families and households can plan for being asked to isolate immediately, and the support that is available.

Research shows there is a high level of support nationally for testing measures to control the spread of the virus, with 90 per cent of respondents stating they’d be willing to isolate for 14 days if someone they had come into contact with had symptoms of the virus.

They were also willing to undergo testing if asked, and 88 per cent stated they’d be happy to provide details of people they had been in contact with.

Dr Maggie Watts, NHS Western Isles Director of Public Health, said: “Test and Protect plays a vital role in protecting all of us by breaking the chains of transmission and it can only work if everyone plays their part.

“If you suspect you have symptoms, we need you to book a test right away, because the quicker the virus can be identified, the better chance there of stopping it.

“Please keep the leaflet handy and follow the step-by-step guidance. It’s important to think about the practicalities of you and your household needing to isolate immediately.”

People can book a test at nhsinform.scot/test-and-protect or, to access testing in the Outer Hebrides, contact the local COVID-19 Response Team on 01851 601151 or email: [email protected]

The phoneline will be staffed from 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday, with an answering machine available outwith those hours.