NHS Orkney issues isolation reminder as COVID-19 cases rise by two

Two people have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of confirmed cases recorded since Friday to six.

NHS Orkney director of public health Dr Louise Wilson said it was imperative that anyone experiencing COVID symptoms stay at home.

She said: “It is concerning that some people continue to come in to work with symptoms rather than isolating. This can lead to others in your workplace and anywhere else you visit becoming seriously ill.”

Dr Wilson said anyone with loss of taste and smell, a fever or a new cough must immediately isolate and book a test. If that test is positive they and everyone in their household must isolate for at least ten days.

“And if someone in the household becomes symptomatic and tests positive during that time then that person must continue to isolate for at least a further ten days,” she said.

Dr Wilson stressed the importance of people keeping their distance from others to prevent infection. 

“One of the most effective ways of avoiding COVID is to keep away from other people. Avoid crowded places and keep your distance. And don’t forget to keep washing your hands.”

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