Public Urged to Remain Cautious on Covid for Christmas
Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has delivered an update to the Scottish Parliament, regarding the nation’s fight against Covid-19.
In an answer to Stirling MSP Evelyn Tweed, the First Minister emphasised she was hopeful this year could see a more normal Christmas for families across Scotland – if the public health guidance was followed to minimise risk.
Addressing MSPs, the First Minister made it clear the situation across Europe has continued to deteriorate in recent weeks, with several governments reimplementing public health measures and restrictions to stem rising case numbers.
Scotland remains the most vaccinated part of the UK, in terms of first, second, third and booster vaccination doses, a testament to the hard work and diligence of our health and social care workers.
The Scottish Government will retain for a further period all remaining legal protections, such as requirements to wear face coverings, as well as the nation’s Covid vaccination certification scheme – yet the venues to which this applies remain unchanged. In a recent change, from 6 December patrons can instead show their recent negative lateral flow test result rather than their certificate.
Workers are also being encouraged to work from home whenever possible, in an effort to minimise outbreaks of the virus. In addition, households can help reduce the spread through regular lateral-flow devices testing. People are urged to get themselves vaccinated against Covid-19 and flu, and if already double-dosed to check their eligibility for third doses or booster shots: https://www.nhsinform.scot/covid-19-vaccine
Alyn Smith, MP for Stirling said:
‘As we saw last year, the colder months have more people increasingly mingling indoors without proper ventilation, all increasing the risks of Covid-19 transmission. Today’s update from the First Minister is most welcome, and demonstrates the close partnership working undertaken by the Scottish Government with industry and medical advice, to form a balanced and proportionate view on public health restrictions. The situation in Europe remains stark, and things remain fragile here across these islands. Let’s continue doing our bit to reduce the spread and keep people safe.’
Stirling MSP Evelyn Tweed said:
‘As winter and colder weather approaches, the pressure on Scotland’s health services continues to be significant. We must do all we can to keep ourselves safe, including taking up offers of vaccinations and boosters, working from home where possible and testing regularly. As we’ve seen throughout Europe, this virus holds no regard for age, background or belief. We must take every precaution possible to reduce the spread of Covid-19 this coming winter season.
Notes:
You can view Evelyn’s question to the First Minister here: https://twitter.com/EvelynTweedSNP/status/1463173825797967879
