Orkney records 29 COVID cases over the past week

Over the past week, Orkney has recorded 29 cases of COVID-19 from PCR tests.

This brings the county’s case total since the pandemic began to 1,741, with cases recently being recorded only from PCR tests.

At this time, there is not a breakdown by NHS health board of the cases recorded by lateral flow tests.

PCR tests are now required if you develop symptoms and:

• Have not already received a positive lateral flow test.
• You fall into the extremely clinically vulnerable category 
• An isolation grant is required 

If you test positive on a lateral flow test and do not fall into any of the above, you should immediately begin isolating and record your result online.

This can be done by visiting https://www.nhsinform.scot/campaigns/coronavirus-covid-19-report-your-test-result.  

Self-isolation guidance can be found on https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/coronavirus-covid-19/test-and-protect/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-for-individuals-with-possible-coronavirus-infection. 

Lateral flow tests can be collected locally from community pharmacies or ordered online via https://www.gov.uk/order-coronavirus-rapid-lateral-flow-tests.  

If you require a PCR test you do not need to call, you can simply arrive at the drive through testing centre (old Macmillan unit at the old Balfour). If you do not drive, you can call 0300 303 9545 for further assistance. The timetable for the testing centre can be found via https://www.ohb.scot.nhs.uk/news/community-testing-service-update-procedure-15-november-2021.