Festive safety reminder from NHS Western Isles and Peat & Diesel

As we near the festive break, NHS Western Isles and Peat & Diesel are reminding islanders to keep safe and avoid unnecessary risks, particularly in light of the recently announced holiday guidance from the Scottish Government.

With strong evidence that the new Coronavirus strain is spreading substantially more quickly than other coronavirus strains previously seen, NHS Western Isles is rereleasing the local smash hit music video ‘My Island’, which features important safety messages.

Highlighting key health messages on how to keep our islands safe during the festive period, the anthemic music video presents some stunning video footage of the Western Isles (as well as other Scottish islands).

Included is information on coronavirus symptoms to look out for (high temperature of 37.8°C or greater, and/or a new and continuous cough, and/or a loss or change in your sense of smell and/or taste).  Other safety messages include keeping the recommended distance from others; wearing face coverings in shops and on public transport; practising good hand hygiene regularly (washing hands for 20 seconds or using hand sanitiser); coughing or sneezing into a tissue or crook of elbow; and avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Guidance is also included for anyone who is experiencing coronavirus symptoms, advising them to immediately self-isolate and access local testing by contacting the COVID-19 Response Team on 01851 601151 or emailing wi.covid19queries@nhs.scot or booking a test online at www.coronavirus.wi.nhs.scot

NHS Western Isles Chief Executive, Gordon Jamieson, said: “This music video presents the perfect blend of uplifting local music and stunning island imagery to highlight our very special islands and how to keep us all safe during this pandemic. We are extremely grateful to Peat and Diesel for teaming up with us to highlight these messages and to Calum J. MacLeod for editing what is an incredible video.”

Peat and Diesel accordionist, Innes Scott, said “Peat and Diesel were only too delighted to lend their support to NHS Western Isles and we hope our music helps spread some important messages.  We are very grateful for all the hard work the NHS is doing, especially during this particular time.”

To view the music video visit: https://vimeo.com/443407921