Two new positive cases of COVID-19 confirmed

Two new positive COVID-19 cases have been identified in Orkney residents, NHS Orkney’s director of public health Dr Louise Wilson has confirmed.

Contacts of the two cases are being traced and asked to isolate.

“Orkney has enjoyed some time without COVID-19 cases but we cannot become complacent. The virus is highly infectious and is spreading quickly on the Scottish mainland. We appeal to the community to take extra care.”

The rollout of the Pfizer BioNTech vaccination in Orkney has seen more than 850 people already vaccinated. The AstraZeneca vaccine is arriving today with vaccination of people over 80 expected to start immediately.

“Until everyone is vaccinated the only way to stay safe from COVID-19 is to follow the FACTS guidance,” Dr Wilson said.

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.

If you think you have COVID-19, please call 111 and not your GP practice.