COVID-19 continues to spread within Dumfries and Galloway – with 2906 positive cases reported in the seven days to January 12, and outbreaks now associated with several care homes.
In addition to continuing outbreaks at Carlingwark House in Castle Douglas and Annan Court Care Home in Annan, Dumfries and Galloway Health and Social Care Partnership have been working in close partnership with the operators of Merse House in Kirkcudbright, Dryfemount Care Home in Lockerbie and Alma McFadyen Care Centre in Dalbeattie to ensure all necessary plans and protocols are in place to manage the outbreak.
Currently, a total of 21 positive COVID-19 cases have been recorded among residents in Annan Court, 10 in Carlingwark, 9 at Merse House, 9 at Dryfemount Care Home, and 7 at Alma McFadyen Care Centre.
The operators of these care homes have been faced with a challenging and difficult situation, but full credit is due to them and their very dedicated staff for the responses that have been mounted.
COVID-19 is very highly infectious, which means that containing its spread is not easy – even when it is being met with all the correct protocols, including regular testing and vaccinations.
The coronavirus can result in mild symptoms, and sometimes none at all, and this can mask its spread to more vulnerable individuals where it can pose a high degree of risk.
As has been noted, following the guidance around the use of PPE such as face coverings, around physical distancing, good hygiene and vaccination continues to be essential as we work to reduce the risk – but these are not by any means absolute guarantees of protection.
Currently, cases of the coronavirus are still being recorded in very high numbers across all four localities in Dumfries and Galloway – Annandale and Eskdale, Nithsdale, Stewartry and Wigtownshire – and there is clear evidence that it is being transmitted within the community.
It is essential that anyone experiencing symptoms of COVID self-isolate and arrange to be tested.
The symptoms of COVID-19 can be mild, but this does not reduce the level of risk to others from what can be a deadly virus. If in any doubt at all, please immediately self-isolate, arrange to be tested and work with our Test and Protect team to help limit any further spread.
The responsibility rests with everyone to do their part to try and limit the spread of coronavirus, and protect ourselves, our loved ones, neighbours, colleagues and communities.
