Health experts issue Covid warning

NHS Lanarkshire has issued a stark warning to the public to take steps to reduce their risk of becoming infected with Covid-19.

That comes as cases continue to soar across the county.

A degree of normality has returned across the country, but NHS Lanarkshire say it’s vital people are aware that coronavirus cases are increasing and the pressures on health services are at“unprecedented levels” and have been for a number of weeks.

Dr John Logan, NHS Lanarkshire’s acting director of public health, said: “We are urging the public to protect themselves, their family, their community, their health service and those who are vulnerable by keeping the number of infections down.

“We strongly encourage people who have not been vaccinated to get vaccinated and for everyone to do a Covid test twice per week, especially before going to work, attending events, meeting people or visiting the vulnerable.

“The more the virus spreads undetected, the greater the number of cases of infection and the greater the chance new variants can take hold.

“By having regular tests and taking up the vaccine offer, we keep infections down.

“We are now beginning to see extremely high Covid-19 case numbers across Lanarkshire. The number of positive tests across Scotland has doubled in the last week, with number of cases reported for Lanarkshire on August 27 being 1269.

“While the majority of the adult population has received two doses of the vaccine, we are extremely concerned as we are beginning to see higher numbers of Covid patients in our hospitals which are already struggling to cope with demand on staff and services.”

Last week NHS Lanarkshire took the decision to temporarily postpone the majority of non-urgent planned care procedures for two weeks to free up staff and beds for urgent care.

Dr Logan added:“Numbers in our hospitals have almost doubled in the last 10 days – from 39 Covid patients across our three hospitals to 70 patients today.

“If you have had the vaccine or a negative test result, it is still important to remember the basics – keep your distance, wear a face covering and clean your hands.

“Limit the number of contacts you have, especially with people who have not been vaccinated.

“If you are planning to meet others, please meet outside whenever possible.

“We are particularly concerned about vulnerable people, especially those who haven’t had two doses of the vaccine, who are more likely to develop severe disease and need admission to intensive care.”