Polar Star - March - May 2024
Tuesday 19 March 2024
 7.6°C   S Fresh Breeze
Ocean Kinetics - The Engineering Experts

Coronavirus / People reminded to comply with Covid rules as winter approaches

PUBLIC agencies in Shetland are stepping up their efforts to educate and encourage local people to continue following the Covid-19 rules in place to reduce the risk of transmission, including compliance of wearing face masks where required.

With rates across the country starting to rise again and the UK having some of the highest Covid incidence rates in Europe, Shetland has done well so far in managing the pandemic and keeping infection rates relatively low.

Eighteen new cases were recorded in the isles during the last seven days, including three in today’s (Friday) data published by the Scottish Government.

By law, everyone aged 12 and over must wear a face mask in most indoor public places in Scotland including shops, bars, restaurants, public transport and at work. There are some exceptions to this rule.

A spokesperson for Shetland Islands Council said that like any other employer the council has the responsibility of taking reasonable steps to minimise the risk of transmission of Covid-19 and to promote compliance with the law by asking people to wear masks.

“We do that by displaying posters that indicate to visitors, staff and service users they are entering a space where face coverings are required by law,” the spokesperson said.

“We keep a supply of face coverings to give to anyone who has forgotten or damaged theirs; and politely ask visitors and clients to wear face coverings in our premises.”

Meanwhile NHS Shetland is about to start distributing a new leaflet that focuses on the key Covid messages, including compliance.

A health board spokesperson said the information campaign would also focus on the theme of “getting ready for winter” including the Covid precautions, preventing the spread of flu and noroviruses, as well as being careful with Christmas parties and shopping trips.

“The public health team is planning to tie in messages for staff at the same time, including use of lateral flow tests, but we do periodically remind staff about this in our weekly staff bulletins, at team meetings etc,” they said.

“It is felt NHS staff are good with the infection control precautions in health settings.”

Become a supporter of Shetland News

Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.

Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.

Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has  over 600 supporters  who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.

Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -

  • Bring you the headlines as they happen;
  • Stay editorially independent;
  • Give a voice to the community;
  • Grow site traffic further;
  • Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.

If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.

Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.

 

Newsletters

Subscribe to a selection of different newsletters from Shetland News, varying from breaking news delivered on the minute, to a weekly round-up of the opinion posts. All delivered straight to your inbox.

Daily Briefing Newsletter Weekly Highlights Newsletter Opinion Newsletter Life in Shetland Newsletter

JavaScript Required

We're sorry, but Shetland News isn't fully functional without JavaScript enabled.
Head over to the help page for instructions on how to enable JavaScript on your browser.

Your Privacy

We use cookies on our site to improve your experience.
By using our service, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy.

Browser is out-of-date

Shetland News isn't fully functional with this version of .
Head over to the help page for instructions on updating your browser for more security, improved speed and the best overall experience on this site.

Interested in Notifications?

Get notifications from Shetland News for important and breaking news.
You can unsubscribe at any time.

Become a supporter of Shetland News

We're committed to ensuring everyone has equitable access to impartial, open and quality local journalism that benefits all residents.

By supporting Shetland News, you play a vital role in ensuring we remain a pivotal resource in supporting the community.

Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.