Number of Covid cases up by a further ten

A FURTHER 10 Covid cases were reported for Shetland on Sunday, bringing the total number of known and confirmed cases of coronavirus to 532 since the start of the pandemic in March last year.

With a total of 26 cases over this weekend, the isles’ seven-day rate per 100,000 population continues to rise and is now at 319.2, double that of the Western Isles and more than four times the prevalence of the virus in Orkney.

NHS Shetland said most cases were linked to travel south. In addition, many younger people infected with Covid are often asymptomatic.

The local public health team said it wishes to remind people that lateral flow tests are very useful as a tool for picking up asymptomatic cases through routine testing.

However, anyone with Covid symptoms such as a new or persistent cough, fever or a change in or loss of taste or smell, need to immediately self-isolate with their household and book a PCR test.

“If, through routine testing, you have a positive lateral flow test result, even though you have no symptoms you must do the same as if you have – that is to self-isolate with your household and arrange a PCR test,” the team added.

To book a PCR test, visit https://www.shb.scot.nhs.uk/ and click on the box which reads “Self-referral for Covid test if you have symptoms”.

Meanwhile, Labour has said the party would also oppose the introduction of vaccination passports for certain venues such a nigh clubs and large events.