Islanders urged to maintain caution when attending large scale events

Individuals across the Western Isles are being reminded to please be cautious and take precautions when attending large scale events, either on the mainland or on-island.  

Whilst the relaxation of COVID-related rules has been welcome after a prolonged period of significant restrictions, it is important that we all continue to follow the current restrictions and advice in place to protect ourselves and those around us.  

Across Scotland, COVID case levels are 80 per cent higher than they were last week and test positivity has also risen nationally – from around five per cent at the start of August to 11.5 per cent at the beginning of September. 

In the Western Isles, we have recently seen an increase in the number of positive cases associated with attendance at large scale events, which in turn results in a much higher number of close contacts.  

Events involving large numbers of people do present an additional risk of transmission of COVID-19. However there are simple and effective measures you can take to help prevent spread. We all have a part to play to slow down transmission. 

Vaccination 

NHS Western Isles would encourage everyone eligible to get vaccinated when offered. This will help ensure that you do not experience serious illness if you do catch COVID-19. However, even if you have been vaccinated, you can still catch COVID-19 and pass the virus on. That’s why it’s essential to follow the additional safety measures in place, even after being vaccinated. 

Hand and Respiratory Hygiene 

Hand and respiratory hygiene is vital to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Hand sanitise at regular intervals, in particular in public places, and before and after touching items that are frequently touched by others (door handles, cash machines, etc). Cough into the crook of your elbow, or into a tissue and dispose of the tissue in a bin.  

Face coverings 

Wear a face covering in areas that this is required or recommended. It is still a legal requirement to wear face coverings in indoor places, such as shops, on public transport and when entering and moving about hospitality settings. Wearing a face covering can reduce the risk to others and yourself against the spread of infection because they cover the nose and mouth, which are the main confirmed sources of transmission of the virus that causes COVID-19. 

Safe distancing 

Even though it’s not the law anymore, avoid (as far as possible) being in close proximity to others. COVID-19 is a highly infectious virus, so as people mix more together, it will take the opportunity to spread. Outdoor events are safer (but please still try and maintain a safe distance from others and don’t drop your guard). If you are indoors, good ventilation makes a big difference. Essentially, avoid, if you can, crowded places and minimise direct physical contact – such as handshaking.  

Asymptomatic Testing 

Remember to carry out your regular asymptomatic testing. Take regular LFD self-tests to reduce the risk of spreading the virus, even if you don’t feel ill yourself. If you are going off-island, test yourself before you leave and again before coming back (three days before coming home and on the day of travel if possible). Find out how to get free kits at NHSinform.scot/testing 

Self-isolate & book a test if you have symptoms 

If you develop symptoms of concern (no matter how mild), please self-isolate and arrange a PCR (laboratory) test. Symptoms range from headaches, sore throats and coughs; to unexplained fatigue, gastrointestinal upset and fever (including high temperature and shivers), so please be vigilant for any new symptoms. Do not rely on an LFD test if you have symptoms, you should call 01851 601151 or email  wi.covid19queries@nhs.scot for a test – and please do not travel off-island or back home from the mainland if you develop symptoms. 

Download the apps 

Please use the Protect Scotland and Check-in Scotland apps. These help ensure close contacts are identified at any early stage to help prevent further spread of the virus.