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Coronavirus / New Covid case a local resident, health board confirms

THE LATEST coronavirus case in the isles is a person living in Shetland, the local health board has confirmed.

NHS Shetland said the person is a contact of a patient who tested positive last week.

The new case, announced today (Tuesday), emerged following a positive test processed at the Gilbert Bain Hospital in Lerwick.

NHS Shetland said all those in their circle, and any others who might be impacted, are being contacted and asked to self-isolate.

The total number of cases associated with Shetland is now 64.

Professor Shantini Paranjothy, NHS Shetland’s honorary consultant in public health medicine, said: “While our island communities have not been as badly affected as those on the mainland, we are vulnerable and remain at risk as the situation across the country is serious.

“Our community is asked to take care and follow the FACTS guidelines. Most important is to keep physically distant from people outside your home, keep washing your hands and be vigilant for symptoms.”

Meanwhile 15 additional deaths have been reported by the Scottish Government, while there are now 824 Covid-19 positive patients in hospital across the country – with 69 in intensive care.

The daily national tally of cases is up by 1,456.

Sturgeon also confirmed earlier that she will meet with party leaders this afternoon on a new tiered approach to coronavirus restrictions, which could see regional variations put in place.

A draft strategic document could be published on Thursday or Friday, and if parliament approve the framework it could come into effect on 2 November.

Sturgeon also repeated her call for people to book a test and self-isolate as soon as they develop any Covid-19 symptoms.

The symptoms are a new cough, fever and loss of taste or smell.

To book a Covid-19 test in Shetland visit the NHS Shetland website and fill in the online Covid-19 test request form.

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