The Scottish Government is today launching its “Test and Protect” system across the country. The aim of this updated system is to be able to move from containing coronavirus to actively suppressing it which would allow our society and economy to avoid a return to lockdown.

The system operates by identifying cases of COVID-19 and tracing anyone who may have been in close contact with the infected person. These people will then be supported to self-isolate which means they are less likely to infect anyone else with the virus.

This means that even if you have no symptoms but have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive to the virus you will be asked by the NHS to self-isolate.

Everyone who tests positive for COVID-19 will be put in touch with their local contact tracing team, so that other close contacts can be identified. These close contacts, as well as household contacts, will be asked to self-isolate for 14 days.

If you have symptoms of COVID-19 – a new cough, fever, or a loss and/or change of taste and/or smell – you must self-isolate at home for 7 days.

If you live with someone who has symptoms or has tested positive, you will be asked to self-isolate at home for 14 days.

If you have symptoms, contact the NHS to arrange to be tested at 0800 028 2816 or on the NHS Inform website at https://www.nhsinform.scot/

When self isolating you should remain at home and DO NOT go to work, school, public areas or go to buy food or other essentials.EZGploOXYAE6cMj.jpg

When self-isolating you should:

  • stay at least 2 metres (6 feet, or 3 steps) away from other people in your home
  • stay in a different room from other people in your home, ensuring it is well-ventilated
  • sleep alone in a separate bed
  • spend as little time as possible in shared areas (sitting room, kitchen, bathroom)
  • avoid using your kitchen while others are present
  • use a separate towel to dry your hands after you wash them; and
  • clean your kitchen, bathroom and other surfaces throughout the house every day

We will only be able to avoid a return to lockdown with your help. If we can suppress the spread of the virus by following the guidelines and self-isolating when we need to then we the restrictions we are facing can continue to be eased.