First local Covid case since mid-April recorded in government figures

A NEW case of coronavirus has been added to Shetland’s tally today (18 May) – the first time the figure has increased in over a month.

NHS Shetland said it emerged through asymptomatic testing and a repeat test is being done by the local Gilbert Bain Hospital laboratory to confirm if this is a new case.

Interim director of public health Dr Susan Laidlaw said new cases would be expected as more people travel to and from Shetland and relaxed rules allow more socialising and mixing with bigger groups of people.

The community is reminded to take up the offer of using rapid LFD tests for people with no symptoms.

Anyone can request these kits for regular twice weekly testing if not already provided by workplace or school. People who are travelling are advised to take tests before coming to Shetland.

Dr Laidlaw said that even though we are now in level one, we must still follow the FACTS guidance – including maintaining physical distancing and wearing masks where required, keeping hands clean and getting a PCR test if symptoms develop.

Updated figures, meanwhile, show that up to Monday 88.6 per cent of adults in Shetland had a first dose of the Covid vaccine.

For the second dose that figure is now 50.5 per cent.