Health board provides Covid update as four more cases are confirmed

NHS Shetland says there are four more cases of  people with Covid –  all are linked to travel, although those impacted had not been away.

Contact tracing remains ongoing. It follows a single case confirmed yesterday (Wednesday).

NHS Shetland interim director of public health Dr Susan Laidlaw appealed to the community to remember the basics of infection control – wash hands with soap and water, keep away from crowded places and wear a face covering when required.

Anyone who suspects they had Covid should immediately self-isolate and book a PCR test.

“I know everyone has heard these messages repeatedly for over a year, but they remain really important to protect our community while we are still in a global pandemic and waiting for vaccination coverage to be as high as it can be,” Dr Laidlaw said.

“Please be aware of your health and, if you feel you have Covid symptoms, however mild, self-isolate and book a PCR test which can be done by visiting: https://www.coronavirus.shetland.nhs.scot”.

The vaccination programme in Shetland continues but the end is in sight, the health board added.

Ninety three per cent of the adult population have had one dose, and 80 per cent have had two doses.

“We are currently calling people who had their first dose in the first half of May to attend for their second vaccination,” Dr Laidlaw said.

All clinics are at the Independent Living Centre (ILC) because of maintenance work at the Gilbertson Park Games Hall.

The capacity at ILC is smaller, so it is taking a little longer to get appointments for the hundreds of people that are due just now.

“We are also still vaccinating people who have not yet had their first dose (for many different reasons),” Dr Laidlaw said.

“If there is anyone else who needs their first dose, or had their first dose more than 10 weeks ago, please get in contact with us.”

People can leave a message on  01595 743319, and they will be phoned back if required.

Or folk can also email: shet.covidvaccinationscheduling@nhs.scot

People are asked to make sure they provide their full name and date of birth if leaving a message or sending an email.