The weekly Covid stats published by Public Health Scotland on 16th of November 2022 are as follows:

• In Scotland, in the week ending 01 November 2022, the estimated number of people testing positive for COVID-19 was 107,300 (95% credible interval: 88,100 to 127,200), equating to 2.04% of the population, or around 1 in 50 people (Source: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Infection Survey, UK – Office for National Statistics)
• In the week ending 13 November 2022, there were on average 657 patients in hospital with COVID-19, an 8.4% decrease from the previous week ending 06 November 2022 (717)
• In the week ending 13 November 2022 there were 6 new admissions to Intensive Care Units (ICUs) with a laboratory confirmed test of COVID-19, a decrease of 8 from the previous week (06 November 2022)
• By week ending 13 November 2022 of the 1,516,826 people vaccinated for COVID-19 as part of the Winter 2022 vaccination programme, 92.3% were vaccinated for Flu at the same vaccination appointment
• In the week ending 06 November 2022, there were 45 deaths involving COVID-19 (3 fewer than the previous week) (Source: National Records of Scotland)

The response to the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to have a wider impact on health and care as a result of the lockdown, economic pressures and changes to health services.

Vaccinations

Orkney – Of those aged 50+, health & social care workers, older care home residents & clinically vulnerable people : 8,275 (63.7%) have had their winter flu jags ( 13th November 2022)

In Scotland 1,444,821 ( 49.7% )of those eligible have had their winter flu jags

Orkney – Of those aged 40+ in Orkney, 12,007 have had 3 (90.2%) Covid jags. Of those aged 75+, 2,272 (90.2%) have had 4 Covid jags

All covid rules and restrictions have been lifted in Scotland, but the virus has not gone away. COVID-19, colds and flu can spread more easily in the winter.

We all still need to keep playing our part to protect ourselves and others. Stay well and make it safer for everyone this winter by:

• getting your vaccines if offered to ensure you are fully protected
• following the latest guidance if you are feeling unwell with symptoms or have a fever
• socialising in well-ventilated spaces where possible
• wearing a face covering in indoor public places and on public transport
• washing your hands and cleaning surfaces regularly