Orkney ranked Scotland’s second-highest infection rate as COVID cases mount

Orkney has recorded 18 new cases of COVID-19 in the past 24 hours, according to figures published by the Scottish Government.

The level of infection across the county has mounted in recent days, with 237 cases recorded here during the past fortnight, including 140 in the past seven days.

As a result, Orkney is now listed having the second-highest infection rate of any community in Scotland, per head of population by Public Health Scotland. However, NHS Orkney’s interim chief executive, Michael Dickson, has suggested this week that the focus should not be on “league tables”, which can be misleading in small populations like ours.

Amid this increase, a growing number of cases have been discovered among staff and pupils at Papdale Primary School in Kirkwall. More than a fifth of pupils were absent from the school on Wednesday, as the number of confirmed cases there rose to 12. It is understood that a number of new cases have been confirmed within the school’s population during the past 24 hours.

The latest update from NHS Orkney, shared amid the announcement of 39 new cases on Wednesday, suggested that the increase was the result of widespread infection across the community. This includes a mixture of household contacts, travel and working environment contacts amongst others. The health authority said that this rise in figures was not unexpected. 

In a statement issued on Wednesday, NHS Orkney public health consultant Sara Lewis said: “We are continuing to see cases rise (and fall) and this is another day of high case numbers for Orkney, but we want to reassure the community that we are managing these cases.

“Although, we do ask that you continue to follow the guidance in place, ensuring good ventilation if indoors, washing hands, wearing face coverings and keeping a safe distance from those out with your household, if possible.

“Vaccinations are underway for both COVID and Flu and these are progressing but it is a complex and challenging undertaking. Appointment letters are being sent out for the covid booster vaccinations and we appreciate your patience during this time.”

NHS Orkney would like to thank the community for following the guidance, for being mindful of their symptoms and for remaining vigilant, especially over Hallowe’en weekend.

If you develop coronavirus symptoms, however mild, or if you have a positive lateral flow test, immediately self-isolate with your household and book a PCR test.

This is regardless of your vaccination status.

You can book a PCR test by calling the COVID Assessment Centre on 01856 888211.

The health authority is also urging the community to continue with twice-weekly lateral flow tests for anyone who doesn’t have COVID symptoms and to record these results online.

The Orcadian has requested updates on the ongoing COVID-19 situation from both Orkney Islands Council and NHS Orkney.