Test and Protect can save lives

Shotts MSP Alex Neil has called on constituents to be aware of the official NHS contact tracer process as Scotland continues to implement the ‘test, trace, isolate, support’ strategy across the country.

The Test and Protect scheme, which was rolled out on May 28, is helping gradually change the restrictions in order to suppress Covid-19.

If anyone experiences any one of the symptoms - a high temperature, a new continuous cough or a loss or change to senses of smell or taste – they must immediately self-isolate for a minimum of seven days. They should also go to www.nhsinform.scot or call 0800 028 2816 imminently to arrange to get tested.

Importantly, contact tracers will not ask anyone for information about bank accounts or medical records, and they will not try to sell you anything. The data gathered will be stored securely by NHS Scotland and safely destroyed as soon as possible after the pandemic concludes.

Mr Neil said: “I understand that people may be worried about the risks of potential phone scams, but the NHS already has a number of protections in place to stop potential fraudsters and ensure all information is kept confidential.

“Contact tracers will introduce themselves, state the reason for their call, and will always identify who they are calling by name. They will not ask for information about bank accounts or medical records, and they will not try to sell you anything.

“The tracers are supported by software which builds on a tried and trusted platform, allowing teams to identify outbreaks and reduce transmission for high risk groups.

“Trace and Protect is one way we will tackle this pandemic, but physical distancing and good hand hygiene continues to play a huge role as minimise the spread of infection.”