The significant rise in Covid-19 cases recorded in the region in recent weeks is not decreasing and although Dumfries and Galloway is no longer one of the highest rate areas in Scotland, we are now seeing numbers of people with serious illness increase.
In the week ending the 29th August 2021 a total of 918 new cases was recorded, almost the same as the previous week at 913. The numbers of close contacts of people with a positive test for Covid-19 dropped to 1815, slightly less than the 2186 recorded the previous week.
Andrew Carnon, Consultant in Public Health Medicine, NHS Dumfries and Galloway, said:
“We are still seeing very high numbers of people in the region and across Scotland testing positive for Covid-19. This has in many respects aligned with the most recent easing of restrictions and increased mixing of people and therefore it is not entirely surprising. What is concerning is that recently we are beginning to see more people becoming seriously ill with Covid. Today there are seven people in the critical care unit of DGRI due to Covid infection, to put this in context, our usual maximum capacity in this unit is four people.
“Since schools returned after the summer break we are seeing some disruption with education due to teachers, pupils and parents having to isolate, get tested and await results. Disruption is also being seen in other essential services such as health and social care. The good thing is that with the new self isolation rules and guidance this kind of disruption can be minimised, provided we follow the process quickly and correctly.
“That said, ultimately the best way to minimise the numbers of people becoming seriously ill with the virus, and disruption to services due to people being cases or contacts, is to get vaccinated and continue doing what we can all do every day to prevent the spread of Covid-19; wearing face coverings, hand hygiene, being thoughtful about our interactions with others and regular testing.”
For the new guidance on self-isolation, since the 9th August, and a step-by-step guide please go to this link online a digital self-help isolation guide.
If you experience any symptoms of Covid, however mild, please don’t ignore them. Immediately self-isolate and book a test.
For information on testing, visit www.nhsdg.co.uk/testing/
For information on vaccinations, visit www.nhsdg.co.uk/vaccines/
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