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Coronavirus / Health board gives masks to staff as part of coronavirus preparations

NHS Shetland says it is ‘well prepared’ to manage any cases of Covid-19

NHS Shetland has provided some of its staff with protective masks as the health board ensures it is as prepared as possible against coronavirus.

The health board said it has plans and resources in place to deal with infectious diseases, adding that it is working closely with colleagues in Health Protection Scotland.

Consultant in public health medicine Susan Laidlaw said: “NHS Shetland staff are being provided with the appropriate personal protective equipment (including masks) as required for their role as per Health Protection Scotland guidance for Covid-19.”

The number of coronavirus cases in the UK currently sits at 19.

The advice for the public is to take the usual precautions to reduce the risk of catching and spreading any respiratory infections, including flu and other common viral illnesses which are circulating at the moment in Shetland.

This includes avoiding contact with people that have a respiratory illness if possible and maintaining good hand hygiene.

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The risk to the general population in Shetland of catching Covid-19 remains low, NHS Shetland added.

There is specific advice for people who have recently been in certain countries and areas which are considered an increased risk for the Covid—19 infection.

The risk areas and the advice will continue to change over time – to see the latest information go to the NHS Inform website.

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