TOUGH TIMES AHEAD AS CASES SURGE

Covid figures hit record high in regi on

Health bosses have admitted that winter will be “challenging” as Covid-19 infections continue to spike in West Lothian.

The latest Public Health Scotland data showed there had been an alarming 1410 infections over the last seven days - four times greater than the previous high recorded last winter.

This has lead to the NHS issuing new guidelines for people in West Lothian and comes after the health board halted non-urgent elective operations amid staff shortages and a rise in patient numbers at the end of last month.

The latest Public Health Scotland data as of September 6 showed that there were another 212 new infections in West Lothian, and 1410 across the week.

This is four times higher than the previous high recorded last winter and NHS Lothian say local residents have their part to play in fighting the virus.

They want people to continue to stick by the rules over the coming months

and to get vaccinated with both doses.

Professor Alex McMahon, Executive Director for Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Healthcare Professionals said, “Covid hasn’t gone away, and although restrictions have eased it remains critically important that the public continues to adhere to the rules on mask wearing and hand hygiene.

“Other things like meeting up outdoors, rather than inside and limiting the number of people you mix with can also really help to reduce the spread of the virus.

“We also encourage everyone who can, to get vaccinated with both doses. Our drop in clinics make this easier than ever and details of all available clinics and their opening times are on our website.”

NHS Lothian ask that people use the testing programme regularly and self-isolate when necessary,

Health bosses are also urging residents in West Lothian to follow the new guidelines before contacting health practioners during the pandemic.

Mr McMahon continued: “It’s also important that the public maintain regular testing and self-isolate if they develop symptoms or if are asked to by Test and Protect.

“We anticipate this winter will be an especially challenging time for NHS services, but the public can do so much to help us.

“We are asking people to remember that the way to access urgent care has changed. If you think you need to access urgent care including A&E, but it’s not life threatening, you should call NHS 24 day or night on 111 first. NHS 24 will direct you to the right care in the right place.

“It is important too to remember that there is self-care information on NHS Inform, and that local pharmacies, GPs, dental practices or opticians might be the most appropriate route to treatment and care. If it is an emergency always call 999 or go to your local A&E.”