Here at  The Orkney News we would like to wish anyone suffering from Covid19 well. Our best wishes also go out to those anxiously awaiting test results or to those who have had to self isolate.

Contact tracing is a vital part of Scotland’s Test and Protect strategy.

The successful implementation of contact tracing will significantly limit the spread of Covid19 in the community.

Here’s what to expect if you are contacted:

If a person tests positive for Covid19 they will be asked  to identify others who they’ve been in close contact with and places they’ve been 48 hours prior to the onset of symptoms up until the time they’ve self-isolated.

This information is then fed  into contact tracing software and used to identify and contact those identified.

The positive individual will not be named by the contact tracer in line with patient confidentiality, unless they agree to have their details disclosed to help the contact tracing process.

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.

• contact tracers will introduce themselves, state the reason for their call, and will always identify the call recipient by name
• contact tracers will only ask for information about your movements and the people you have been in close physical proximity to
• contact tracers will not ask for personal information like bank accounts, or medical records and will not offer services to you, or try to sell you anything
  
• they may send a text message or email to provide links to online guidance and support

If you have to self isolate there is support available to enable to do so safely.

Helpline for those who are not able to have support from friends, family or neighbours

This link Scotland Coronavirus Tracker gives you information about Covid19 in your local area and in Scotland.

And this link covers the UK: UK Coronavirus Tracker

And if you are anxious that is ok. These are very strange and unsettling times.

It’s OK To Feel Anxious: Clear Your Head