Moray MSP urges vigilance over Coronavirus
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MORAY'S MSP is urging local people to be vigilant and follow public health advice for Coronavirus.
It comes after the Scottish Government published new guidance and updated travel advice for people returning from overseas.
Richard Lochhead said: "While all tests in Scotland have so far been negative, the Scottish Government has put plans in place to ensure a rapid response should a case of Coronavirus be confirmed.
"It is extremely important that people are vigilant and that anyone in Moray returning from overseas follows the advice that has been issued by the Chief Medical Officer.
"Early detection will be vital to ensuring that the virus is contained and to stop it from spreading, so it's essential that folk take the same precautions they would to avoid a cold or the flu, for example washing their hands and covering their nose and mouth when coughing.
"If there’s anyone who has returned to the UK from the countries listed in the travel guidance they should follow advice to remain indoors and should they experience any of the symptoms of Coronavirus they should contact NHS 24 as soon as possible, even if their symptoms are mild."
Common symptoms of the virus include: high temperature or fever, cough and shortness of breath.
Updates on public health advice for coronavirus can be found on the NHS Inform website and a free helpline has been set up for those who do not have symptoms but are looking for general health advice: 0800 028 2816.
The latest numbers of test results are published at 2pm each day on the Scottish Government website.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has chaired a Scottish Government Resilience meeting to discuss preparedness in Scotland, following outbreaks in northern Italy and other parts of the world.
Health Secretary Jeane Freeman, who also attended the meeting, said: "Though the risk to individuals remain low, and all test results have come back negative so far, the Chief Medical Officer has advised that it is highly likely that we will see a positive case in Scotland as coronavirus continues to spread. We are expecting an outbreak and are working hard to ensure we have plans in place to contain it as best we can. The NHS and Health Protection Scotland have an established plan to respond to anyone who becomes unwell."
Ms Freeman said the public has a "vital role" to play by following the latest health and travel advice, and following basic hygiene precautions, such as washing hands and covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
In preparation, two testing laboratories in Glasgow and Edinburgh have been established, GP surgeries have been supplied with face masks and hospitals are fully stocked with personal protective equipment.
Public health legislation has also been updated to make coronavirus a notifiable disease. For anyone who is planning to travel abroad, guidance can be found on fitfortravel.
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