Stronsay pulls together to keep COVID at bay

As confirmed COVID cases continue to rise across Orkney, one island in particular is setting a stellar example to the community, by pulling together to prevent further spread of infection.

While it is understood that Stronsay is not harbouring an exceptionally high number of confirmed positive cases, the community there is taking swift action to prevent an outbreak.

This includes the closure of several businesses which may have come into contact with positive cases.

Speaking to The Orcadian from self-isolation, this evening, Stronsay’s community council chairman, Ian Cooper, said that he is only aware of a single PCR-confirmed positive case in the island. However, there are a growing number of folk self-isolating, and the community has taken quick action to prevent any further transmission.

“I think there has maybe been a few folk that have had positive lateral flow tests — myself included,” Mr Cooper explained.

“A similar thing happened maybe back in August, where there was just one confirmed PCR case, and the whole island just closed down for a peedie while.”

Mr Cooper has praised the population of around 300 for the way it has responded during the pandemic to self-isolation — particularly in terms of folk supporting each other when many are unable to leave their homes for essentials.

“It’s a small community,” he said.

“Everybody just pulls together. If anybody needs something, there is always someone there to help out.”

As those who have received a positive lateral flow result now receive PCR testing via the Stronsay surgery, Mr Cooper anticipates that there may be a rise in confirmed cases. He is confident, however, that the community will remain on top of the situation by taking the appropriate self-isolation, social distancing and hygiene precautions advised by the Scottish Government.