Coronavirus contingency plan in place

A continuity plan has been put in place by Argyll and Bute Council following advice from the Scottish Government that Scotland should prepare for a ‘significant outbreak’ of the Coronavirus, writes Fiona Scott.

At the time of going to print there had only been one confirmed case of COVID-19 in Scotland but speaking on Monday Scotland’s first minister Nicola Sturgeon said that future cases were likely in the days to come.

An Argyll and Bute Council spokesperson commented: ‘We have internal business continuity plans already in place along with a generic Emergency Response Plan and pandemic flu response plan that would be used regarding a coronavirus outbreak in the area. ‘We are monitoring the situation and will continue to provide staff with the latest information and guidance.’ Elsewhere, a spokeswoman for Argyll and Bute HSCP said: ‘The Scottish Government is leading on the public health messages on this and we obviously link in as well.’

In her address on Monday Ms Sturgeon said the

UK was currently in the ‘containment phase’ of coronavirus.

She added: ‘It is, however, important to be very clear that we would expect to see further cases confirmed in the days to come and it’s also important to be clear that we are planning for the likelihood of a significant outbreak of coronavirus in the weeks to come.’

During the next phase – known as the ‘delay phase’ – the cancellation of large-scale events will be considered.

Further information can be found on the NHS Inform webpages along with advice for the public and common FAQs.