No new COVID-19 cases reported in daily figures

There have been no new positive cases of COVID-19 in Orkney in the last 24 hours, following two recorded cases yesterday.

Contact tracing was underway following the return of two positive tests, and people were being advised to self-isolate.

The positive tests come after an upsurge in cases across the UK, including near neighbours Shetland, due to a faster spreading variant of the virus.

According to the daily figures published by the Scottish Government, the total number of positive cases in Orkney since the start of the pandemic stands at 41.

NHS Orkney’s director of public health, Dr Louise Wilson, urged people not to become complacent due to the low prevalence of COVID-19 here in Orkney.

Dr Wilson said: “The virus is highly infectious and is spreading quickly on the Scottish mainland. We appeal to the community to take extra care.”

She added: “Until everyone is vaccinated the only way to stay safe from COVID-19 is to follow the FACTS guidance.”

Orkney remains in Level Three of Scottish Government’s restrictions.

NHS Orkney has a direct phone line for people with symptoms to book a COVID-19 test.

This is 888 211 between 8am and 6pm Monday-Friday, and until 12pm on a Saturday.