As we look forward to 2022 with renewed optimism but also a sense of continued vigilance and resilience, no-one can guarantee a return to life exactly as it was in every respect before COVID-19. But through our collective efforts – and even though the road ahead may yet be challenging at times – we know that recovery and progress to a better future is now underway.
FM Nicola Sturgeon
The Scottish Government published today, 22nd February 2022 an update on its strategic framework to managing the Covid-19 pandemic.
Future Targeted and Proportionate Measures
The Scottish Government has judged that the current situation – with a highly transmissible variant, resulting in a high level of infection, but with a lower severity of impact than previous variants – represents a medium threat.
They believe that this will reduce in the coming weeks to a low threat. The remaining legal measures in place will be lifted.
Monday 28th February – The COVID certification scheme requiring certain venues and events to check the vaccine or test status of attendees will come to an end.
Monday 28th February – advice to the public is to test at least twice a week and in particular if you are going to a crowded place or mixing with someone who is clinically vulnerable.
21st March – the legal requirement to wear face coverings in certain indoor settings and on public transport will be converted to guidance. The wearing of face coverings in shops and other indoor public places, and on public transport is strongly recommended.
21st March – the legal requirement for businesses, places of worship and service providers to have regard to guidance on COVID, and to take practical measures set out in the guidance will be lifted.
21st March – the legal requirement on businesses and service providers to retain customer contact details will be lifted.
March – transition plan published on future testing requirements. Lateral flow tests will remain free of charge in the transition phase.
Self isolation support payments will continue to be available to those who are eligible. The recommended period of isolation will be kept under review.
All care home residents, those over 75, and everyone over 12 who is immunosuppressed, will be offered an additional booster six months after their last jag.
Adaptation
- Increased hygiene
- Ensuring hand sanitiser is available and encouraged to be used
- Ensure soap dispensers are in place and full in facilities
- Regular cleaning of tables etc. Adjusting premises
- Improved ventilation, including mechanical ventilation where possible
- Altering premises including using outside spaces where possible
- Encouraging some distancing between customers and staff where possible
- Increased levels of hybrid working
- Support staff to isolate when symptomatic
- Encourage face coverings even when not mandatory
- Testing (when available and appropriate)
“we continue to face a very highly transmissible variant that is causing a high level of community infection”, Nicola Sturgeon
See also: 84 New #Covid Cases in Orkney