‘Delta Variant’ Suspected In Dumfries and Galloway – COVID-19

Across Dumfries and Galloway there was a total of 8 new COVID-19 cases in the week ending Sunday 30 May – up from 3 the previous week.  This includes suspected cases of the B.1.617.2 variant, now known as the ‘Delta Variant’.

The number of close contacts had also increased, up from 6 in the previous week to stand at 61.

A total of 3182 COVID-19 PCR tests took place in the region, up from 2862 the previous week.

Director of Public Health Valerie White said: “A lot of hard work helped bring down the number of cases in Dumfries and Galloway from the very concerning levels we saw at the start of the year. 

“Our numbers continue to remain relatively low, but we know only too well how quickly the arrival of a new coronavirus variant can change the landscape. 

“We’re not suggesting that this Delta Variant is about to drastically change our situation, and acknowledge that it is expected to gradually become the dominant version of COVID-19 across Scotland as a whole. 

“However, it is very much worth asking people to remember that although restrictions have eased there are still things we should all be doing to limit the potential for spread.  Please do follow the FACTS guidance around physical distancing, use of face coverings, hand hygiene, etc. 

“Crucially, we still need everyone to immediately self-isolate and arrange to be tested if they experience any symptoms of COVID-19, which are: 

Increased temperature 

A new, continuous cough 

Change to or loss of sense of taste and/or smell. 

“There is an abundance of testing opportunities across our region, including testing for anyone without symptoms at either set locations or via home testing kits. 

“To find out more, visit www.nhsdg.co.uk/testing/”

“Everyone should enjoy the new freedoms that we’ve worked so hard to achieve, but we’d encourage an appreciation that by being careful we can help to secure and protect where we are.”