An appeal has been issued to everyone who has Covid-19 symptoms in the NHS Highland area.
With cases rising, the public have been urged to self-isolate and book a test if they are showing symptoms.
Dr Tim Allison, director of public health for NHS Highland, said confirmed cases were rising and there had been over 600 positive tests in the area since the start of the pandemic.
He added: “Whilst localised outbreaks of infection have been seen, it is mostly individual sporadic Covid cases or small clusters, such as in families, that we are seeing at the moment.
“We are learning and improving our processes for dealing with these cases at every opportunity but I am also making an appeal to everyone to help us in fighting this virus.
“If you have symptoms of Covid please self-isolate and book a test.
“If you are confirmed as having Covid we would ask you to continue to self-isolate for 10 days as per the national guidance.
“For close contacts of positive cases we would ask them to self-isolate for 14 days, even if you get tested and it is negative.
“It is important that you continue to self-isolate for that 14 day period. A negative test does not change the need to self-isolate if you are a close contact.”
You can book a test for yourself, someone you care for, or a child in your care but you only need to book a test if you have symptoms or you have been explicitly asked to get a test by our public health team.
Tests may also be recommended in other circumstances including some staff groups such as care home workers.
A test can be booked by calling 0800 028 2816 or visiting the NHS Inform website.
You do not need to call NHS 24 to organise a test.
In order to be tested you should be displaying symptoms such as new, continuous cough, fever or changes in your sense of smell or taste.
Testing should also be arranged in the first three days of symptoms appearing, although testing is effective until day five.
Dr Allison added: “I want to thank everyone for all their hard efforts as we continue to fight this virus. COVID is still here and it is important that everyone continues to follow the national guidance to keep them and others safe.”
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