An urgent appeal to the public has been issued after a further increase in Covid-19 cases in Helensburgh, Garelochhead and the Rosneath Peninsula.
NHS Highland said tonight that across Argyll and Bute there have been 32 cases identified since yesterday, with ‘multiple schools’ affected and some businesses having to close.
Health officials say there have been community outbreaks in Helensburgh, Garelochhead and Oban, and they advise people in these communities try to minimise contact with others to limit any further spread, as well as using PCR testing to try to contain the outbreaks.
Latest data from Public Health Scotland shows 62 new cases over the last seven days in Argyll and Bute, the highest number for more than six months.
Many of these are in the ‘Garelochhead neighbourhood’ area, which also includes the Rosneath Peninsula, where 27 new cases have been recorded in the last seven days.
Dr Tim Allison, director of public health with NHS Highland, said: “This is a significant situation and we expect the case numbers to rise further.
“Please continue to follow all guidance from NHS Highland’s contact tracing team.
“If you have been identified as a close contact, please self-isolate and get a PCR test.
“If you are identified as a close contact and your test is negative you must continue to isolate for 10 days as advised
“I would also like to take the opportunity to thank the communities for their engagement and for taking action to try to contain the outbreaks.”
A community testing site in Helensburgh is available through appointment to everyone, whether you have symptoms or not.
To book an appointment, contact NHS Inform online or by calling 0800 028 2816. When booking you should select the option ‘I have been asked to book by my local council or health protection team’ which will allow you to get tested even if you don’t have symptoms. Postal PCR kits are also available through NHS Inform.
Typical symptomsof Covid-19 are a new continuous cough, a high temperature or fever and a loss of, or change in, normal taste or smell (anosmia).
However, people with Covid-19 can present with a wide range of symptoms including headache, sore muscles and joints, tiredness, sore throat, cold-like symptoms and diarrhoea and vomiting.
Anyone who becomes unwell is advised to isolate immediately and seek a PCR test.
Support for people who need to self-isolate is available, including a £500 self-isolation support grant for low income workers. (https://www.gov.scot/news/self-isolation-support-grant-now-open/)
People who do not have family or community support can also call the National Assistance Helpline on 0800 111 4000, or contact via textphone on 0800 111 4114.
Leave a Reply