East Lothian residents are being encouraged to get tested for COVID-19 even if they have no symptoms.
Depute Council Leader, Councillor Norman Hampshire, said:
“As the summer holidays continue and another weekend approaches, we’re very keen to encourage East Lothian residents to continue following national health advice, remember ‘FACTS’ and to get tested regularly – even if they have no symptoms of COVID-19.
“The number of positive cases being reported is still too high for our liking and so, while the vaccination programme is reducing harm, the risk to public health remains very present and real.
"We are all looking forward to living an increasingly less restrictive way of life, hopefully very soon, but we know that almost 1 in 3 people who have the virus don’t show any of the usual symptoms and so could be passing it on to loved ones and others in local communities without knowing.
"Getting tested regularly can help stop the spread – and it’s very easy to do. People can get tested or collect a kit from the former Stoneyhill Community Centre in Musselburgh, visit a mobile test unit, order online or collect from a community pharmacy.
“So if you’re going out this weekend – whether it’s for a meal, visiting friends or participating in an activity – please first get tested, and continue to do so regularly.
“Even if you’ve had your vaccines, you should test regularly, ideally twice a week.
"You can find out more information about local testing arrangements on the East Lothian Council website.
“An encouraging development is the availability of drop-in clinics for adults over the age of 18 at the East Lothian Community Hospital in Haddington. I would encourage those who haven’t yet received vaccination to go along and get their jab.”
East Lothian remains in COVID-19 Protection Level 1.
People are reminded to:
- wear a face covering when required
- avoid crowded places
- clean hands and surfaces regularly
- stay 2m away from other people
- self-isolate and get tested if you have COVID-19 symptoms
- download the Protect Scotland app