We’ll drink to that
CORONAVIRUS restrictions have relaxed in Scotland, with most mainland areas moving to level two as the country progresses out of lockdown.
It means people are now able to hug loved ones again and socialise indoors, subject to restrictions.
Glasgow and Moray remain in level three due to virus outbreaks. Many island communities have moved to level one.
Nicola Sturgeon announced the latest easing of lockdown measures last Tuesday. The First Minister said social distancing requirements during meetings indoors or in private gardens were to be dropped.
And yesterday she tweeted: “Covid restrictions ease further today as many parts of Scotland move to level two (sadly not yet Glasgow City or Moray) and many islands to level one. This is a longawaited moment but remember that the virus still poses a big threat, so please continue to be cautious & very careful.”
Up to six people from three households can now socialise indoors in a private home or garden without physical distancing.
Deputy First Minister John Swinney told the
BBC’S Good Morning Scotland: “The situation that we face in Glasgow and in Moray illustrates just how fragile the progress that we are
making is – so I suppose what I would say to members of the public is that we need to continue to tread carefully and cautiously and wearily as
we relax these restrictions.
“As we enjoy some of the freedoms that we now have, we’ve got to handle them with a
great deal of care.”
NHS Grampian accelerated its vaccination programme in Moray to combat the outbreak, while NHS
Greater Glasgow and Clyde is contacting 18 to 30-year-olds in communities most impacted by the new Covid-19 variant to
offer vaccinations.
Glasgow will also bring forward second doses for those aged 50 and over in worst-hit areas.