Information issued by NHS Highland 17 June 2021
Following our communication on the 16 June, there has been a further increase in cases of COVID-19 across Argyll and Bute with 32 cases identified since yesterday. Multiple schools have been affected and businesses have had to close.
Given the increase in cases, and community outbreaks in Helensburgh, Garelochhead and Oban, we would advise that people in these communities try to minimise contact with others to limit any further spread and access PCR testing in order to try to contain the outbreaks.
There are community testing sites in Oban and Helensburgh and available through appointment to everyone, whether you have symptoms or not.
To book an appointment, you can 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.
We would urge communities across Argyll and Bute to remain vigilant for the symptoms of COVID-19. The typical symptoms 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 that becomes unwell should isolate immediately and seek a PCR test.
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.”
Dr Allison added: “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.”
Notes to editors:
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.
More information on self-isolation support is available from ready.scot/coronavirus.hg