COVID-19 cases remain stable

There have been no new cases of COVID-19 identified in Orkney over the last 24 hours.

Three cases have been recorded since Friday, leading NHS Orkney to urge people to remain vigilant.

The number of test-positive cases in Orkney since the start of the pandemic in March now stands at 48.

According to NHS Orkney chief executive Michael Dickson, the situation here in Orkney is “finely balanced” despite not seeing the rise in cases like other areas of Scotland including Shetland and the Western Isles who have both seen significant case numbers in recent days and weeks.

Speaking yesterday, Mr Dickson said: “Even if you think it is only a cold you should stay at home and request a test.

“Public Health colleagues are hearing that people can have mild cold symptoms which then go on to develop into the more recognised COVID-19 symptoms a few days later (a fever, a new persistent cough or a new change in loss of taste or smell).

“Everyone who can work from home should be doing so, but for those that cannot, it is really important not to become complacent in following the rules, including wearing masks correctly and maintaining social distancing.

“Vaccine roll-out is underway to the most vulnerable people in our community, but we still have quite some way to go before we are able to let our guard down. By following all the rules this stands us in the best place to get back to lower levels of restrictions sooner, and to protect our loved ones in the process.”

NHS Orkney has a direct phone line for people with symptoms to book a COVID-19 test. This is 888 211 between 9.30am and 5.30pm Monday-Friday, and until 12.30pm on a Saturday.

Do not contact or visit your GP practice or The Balfour hospital if you think you have COVID-19.