COVID-19 Update on Uist

Friday 25^th September 2020

Following today’s confirmation regarding three positive cases of COVID-19 in the Uists, some additional information is now available.

As part of the identification of cases of COVID-19 in South Uist and due to care home staff being identified as close contacts, the local Problem Assessment Group (PAG) has advised testing of all staff and residents of Taigh a'Chridhe Uile Naomh (TACUN).  The care home has suspended admissions, discharges and visiting for the present. 

Care home staff are routinely tested as a matter of course, however, on the advice of the local Health Protection Team, both residents and employees are currently being tested or re-tested.

All appropriate actions to ensure the continued safety of residents and employees of the care home are being taken in line with Scottish Government and Health Protection guidance and advice, and all staff, residents and residents’ families will continue to be kept informed.

In addition, due to nursery staff being identified as close contacts and asked to self-isolate for 14 days, we can confirm that Cothrom Nursery will be closed until further notice.

NHS Western Isles can confirm that contact tracing of the three individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 infection is ongoing. Close contacts are being advised to self-isolate and other identified contacts are being followed up and given appropriate advice.

The individuals have mild symptoms that are being managed at home.

NHS Western Isles Director of Public Health, Dr Maggie Watts said: “Following the identification of these positive results, the individuals involved have been asked to self isolate for ten days from onset of symptoms and we are tracing all their contacts, who are also being advised to self isolate for fourteen days from the date of their last contact with the case as a precaution. We would highlight to those contacted through Test and Protect to self isolate that they must complete their 14 day self isolation period, even in the event that they are subsequently tested, and test negative for COVID-19.

“We would like to reassure our local communities and visitors to the island that we are taking all necessary steps to contain the virus but it is vital that everyone in the Western Isles follows the current Scottish Government restrictions and FACTS guidance to limit any spread of the virus.”

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are:

• A high temperature (37.8C of greater)
• And/or a new and continuous cough
• And/or a loss or change in your sense of smell and/or taste.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you and your household should should immediately self isolate and book a test. To access testing in the Western Isles, contact the COVID-19 Response Team on 01851 601151 or email: wi-hb.covid19queries@nhs.net The phoneline will be staffed from 9am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday with an answering machine available outwith those hours.

Alternatively you can complete the online COVID-19 Testing Programme Referral Form (NHS Western Isles) https://www.coronavirus.wi.nhs.scot/?page_id=2195 

FACTS

F – Face coverings. These should be used in shops and on public transport (buses, trains and taxis)
A – Avoid crowded places.
C – Clean your hands frequently, using water & soap whenever possible.
T – Two metres – observe physical distancing.
S – Self-isolate and book a test if you are suffering from COVID-19 symptoms.

Please ensure that you maintain good respiratory hygiene – cough or sneeze into a tissue and dispose of the tissue in a bin, or alternatively cough/sneeze into your elbow.

Please also ensure you follow Scottish Government restrictions on physical distancing and household restrictions and do not share a car with anyone from another household.

Visit www.coronavirus.wi.nhs.scot or www.nhsinform.scot/ for further advice or information

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