Lateral flow test supplies running low

ISLANDERS may find it difficult to follow the latest Covid advice as local pharmacies are running short of lateral flow tests.

There are some reports of local chemists, in Lerwick and Scalloway, running out of stock.

There are also none available to order online through the UK government website today (Tuesday) after the system was overwhelmed by demand (screenshot taken this morning).

A spokesperson for NHS Shetland said there are still some supplies available at the Test and Protect centre at the Greenhead Base, and more on order.

“We know there is a national supply issue via the wholesalers which is out of our control,” she said.

“Health and social care staff, school staff/secondary pupils and anyone else who get them through work should continue to (and not use the community routes).”

Shetland MSP Beatrice Wishart has been made aware of the situation.

The latest Scottish Government advice is for people to test themselves whenever they meet other people, enter crowded places, or indeed are travelling.

Stricter measures to limit the spread of the Omicron variant are expected to be announced this afternoon.

The news comes as health boards across the country, including NHS Shetland, are preparing for the anticipated increase in Covid numbers while redirecting resources to deliver an accelerated vaccination programme.