New Orkney COVID-19 case confirmed

One new case of COVID-19 has been recorded in Orkney, during the past 24 hours.

According to NHS Orkney, the case is linked to an existing cluster in the county. Contacts of this individual are being traced.

In the past fortnight, 16 new cases have been identified in Orkney, bringing the total number of positive tests attributed to the county to date to 61.

NHS Orkney public health consultant Sara Lewis reminded the public that the period of isolation after a positive test was ten days for everyone in the individual’s household.

“If someone else in the household tests positive during this time, the individual will have to isolate for a further ten days which will bring them out of their infectious period.”

Mrs Lewis said many people were presenting with mild symptoms and these had to be taken seriously.

“If you suspect you have COVID-19 or if you have symptoms, like a new cough, fever or loss of taste and smell then you must ask for a test.”

She reminded those who were isolating that they needed to be very careful about passing the virus on and that they should ask for support with shopping and other essentials. Support for anyone in Orkney who is isolating can be accessed through the Community Support Hub.

https://www.orkney.gov.uk/Council/C/coronavirus-covid-19-community-support-hub.htm

Anyone experiencing Covid symptoms should contact the Covid Assessment Centre for a test. The number to call is 01856 888211.