Covid Update - 15 April 2022
We are now in a phase where we are seeing substantial changes to the way we have managed Covid for the past 2 years. We’re not new to changes as we’ve gone from lockdowns to levels of regulations and now the next phase.
Michael Dickson, Interim Chief Executive shared; "We knew Covid would never disappear overnight. Instead, we are seeing small changes one bit at a time, the changes outlined below are simply the next steps. As we move through the changes, many of the Covid regulations will remain across NHS Orkney, face coverings will still be required when entering health and social care settings and if visiting, lateral flow tests will still be provided and required. All of these will continue to be under regular clinical review but at present some measures are here to stay."
The Scottish Government has announced face coverings will no longer be mandatory in most public places from Monday, 18th April. Face coverings will remain mandatory in most hospital and healthcare settings at present. This means if you’re visiting loved ones, please do still change into one of our provided surgical masks when arriving at the hospital or any healthcare facility. Face coverings can still be worn and will be encouraged, particularly in areas of bad ventilation or where you are in confined spaces with lots of people.
As of Monday, 18th April most people will be able to stop regular lateral flow testing. There will be no need to test when you feel well and don’t have Covid symptoms, this will be the end of routine asymptomatic testing. Lateral flow tests will not be available for those who do not have Covid symptoms. Regular testing will still take place within specific workplaces i.e., health and social care settings and tests will be provided for those within this group.
For the moment, PCR testing is remaining, and these tests continue to be for anyone with symptoms. You can still seek a PCR test as previously done, no appointment needed simply, drive to the old Macmillan Unit at the Old Balfour and you will be given a PCR test kit. If you cannot drive, please call 0300 303 9545 for assistance.
We do expect PCR testing to change at the end of April, this will mean, even if you are symptomatic, you will no longer require any form of test but instead, the public health guidance will be to stay at home if you feel unwell.
Lateral flow testing will continue for anyone visiting a care home or hospital and lateral flow tests will be provided. This will be kept under regular clinical review.
Contact tracing is still in place for the moment however, it is also due to come to an end at the end of the month with the removal of PCR tests.
If you’re feeling unwell with Covid symptoms and, need medical advice, your first point of call should be your GP. Outwith practice hours, you can call 111 to seek advice. You can also continue to seek Covid information and advice via NHS Inform at https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/coronavirus-covid-19
Vaccinations are continuing to be offered, if you are yet to receive your 1st, 2nd or booster dose, you can come forward at any point to begin your vaccinations. You can call the vaccination centre on 0300 303 5313 to book an appointment or to simply chat to one of the team about any questions you have regarding Covid vaccination. In addition, we are currently offering spring boosters to anyone aged 75+ or those in the Clinically Extremely Vulnerable category. To find out which doses you are eligible for, please visit https://www.nhsinform.scot/covid-19-vaccine/the-vaccines/coronavirus-covid-19-booster-vaccination/.
We understand many will be cautious about the new changes and we want to highlight the UK wide Distance Aware initiative. This aims to support people in adapting to live with the virus in ways that are less restrictive and can help overcome anxiety and help to build confidence about returning to public settings.
Distance Aware uses a shield icon and is worn as a badge or lanyard to allow individuals to indicate that they would like to have space and care around them where possible. This will be of particular note to those with underlying health conditions, older people, disabled people and to those on the Highest Risk List.