Previous COVID-19 case no longer thought to be travel-linked

An Orkney COVID-19 case which was thought to be connected to travel is now believed to have been contracted within the county itself.

The case in question was confirmed on Wednesday, February 10, and NHS Orkney initially suspected that the infection had been brought in from outside of Orkney.

However, following a detailed track and trace investigation, the health authority now believes it that this case is more likely to be connected to existing infections within the county.

Sharing this update today, Friday, an NHS Orkney spokeswoman said: “In an analysis of the case, dates of potential contacts and possible infection times, it does not appear likely that the affected person could have contracted COVID while travelling.

“We are making this information known to the public to ask them to remain vigilant. While the vaccination programme is making great progress, we cannot let our guard down.”

NHS chief executive Michael Dickson said this was an indication of how easy it was to contract the virus and he urged the community to take care when out and about.

Mr Dickson said: “We should never seek to blame people who contract COVID-19.

“The virus is very easy to contract and transmit which is why we continue to urge the community to follow the FACTS guidance to avoid the risk of infection.

“No one goes out of their way to contract COVID and they face the real possibility that they could become very ill.

“If you know someone who is infected be supportive, be understanding and most of all be kind”.

If you have symptoms of COVID-19, you must self-isolate immediately and book a test.

To book a test, call  01856 888 211

To reschedule a COVID-19 vaccination, phone 0300 303 5313.