The Council reinforces NHS Orkney’s community appeal for vigilance in light of rising COVID cases

Orkney Islands Council is reinforcing NHS Orkney’s appeal for communities to be vigilant heading into the weekend given the rising COVID-19 transmission rate.

A further 22 positive cases have been attributed to Orkney today, Friday 29 October, according to NHS Orkney.

The ongoing rate of transmission, and the requirement for close contacts to isolate, is having a knock-on effect on some businesses and services, including within Orkney Islands Council.

Stronsay Junior High School had to close on Friday afternoon as a result of a positive case and the need for close contacts to isolate as required by Public Health guidelines.

The Council’s Executive Director of Education, Leisure and Housing, James Wylie, said: “I want to reassure staff, parents/carers and all students that the closure of an educational facility is as a last resort. However, it is imperative that we follow the guidance given to us by NHS Orkney Public Health to ensure the safety of everyone.

“Schools and nurseries do have contingency plans in place, and these have worked very well, however, if there are large numbers of staff required to isolate then, unfortunately, as in this instance, a whole school closure may become the only option. We will endeavour, as we have throughout the pandemic, to ensure that disruptions are kept to an absolute minimum. We recognise that our children and young people have already missed out on so much, but we must adhere to the advice and guidelines from Public Health.

“We must also be mindful that the virus has not gone away, in fact the figures in Orkney are the highest they have been, and we all have a responsibility to follow the guidance to curb the spread and keep everyone, particularly the most vulnerable members of our communities, safe.

“We would urge all staff and eligible secondary students to continue to take twice weekly lateral flow tests and report the results online whether negative or positive.”

NHS Orkney is continuing to manage the cases and point out that they have not found any major clusters, instead, pointing to widespread community transmission.

They are further appealing for everyone to continue to use lateral flow tests if you are not experiencing any symptoms of COVID and, again, to log these results online. If you have a positive lateral flow test, you and your household should isolate immediately, and you should book a PCR test. If you begin to develop any COVID symptoms (a new or continuous cough, loss of taste/smell or high temperature) isolate immediately, with your household, and book a PCR test.

The Covid Assessment Centre will remain open this weekend (Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 October) from 0900-1230 for anyone who requires a PCR test. To book a PCR test please call 01856 888211.

Neither NHS Orkney or Orkney Islands Council is asking folk to lock themselves away but to be cautious of your actions and follow all guidance available; regular hand washing, face coverings, staying a safe distance from those outwith your household and of course, good ventilation if indoors.