Remain ‘Covid vigilant’ as New Year approachs

A Lanarkshire doctor is urging “Covid vigilance” over the New Year period.

Geriatrician Dr Alison Falconer has appealed to Monklands residents to stick with the public health guidance on coronavirus.

Both North and South Lanarkshire began at least three weeks in level four of the Scottish Government’s Covid-19 restrictions tiers on Boxing Day.

And Dr Falconer, whose own family has been affected by coronavirus, said that Covid-19 infections are high, hospital admissions are up, and intensive care beds are in demand in the area.

Dr Falconer believes that this, combined with the fact that a vaccination programme is just beginning, means it is vital that people must continue to clean their hands and hard surfaces regularly, wear a face mask in enclosed spaces, keep two-metres distance where possible, and avoid crowds or gathering in groups and self-isolate and book a test if symptoms appear.

In a video recording on Twitter, Dr Falconer said: “As an elderly care medicine consultant, I have seen the effects that the virus has had on my patients, most acutely in care homes.

“The loneliness after being shielded for months at home and the distress of being in hospital away from family and loved ones and familiar faces is significant – especially for people living with dementia.

“If my patients develop Covid-19, they are less likely to survive.

“So, for them, please think “FACTS” – face coverings in enclosed spaces, avoid crowded places, clean hands and surfaces regularly, two-metre distancing, and self-isolate and book if you have symptoms.

“Now, more than ever, if we all follow the rules, you and your loved ones can help avoid getting coronavirus over the festive period.”