The dangers of catching Covid-19 through car and van sharing have been highlighted by Public Health experts at NHS Forth Valley. The warning comes after a number of cases have been linked to people travelling together in vehicles, particularly those who share transport in connection with their work.

NHS Forth Valley’s Director of Public Health, Dr Graham Foster, said: “We strongly advise against getting into anyone else’s car or van as we are now hearing of local cases due to vehicle sharing. Where it is essential for people from different households to travel together in vans or cars, they should wear a face covering at all times, keep windows open and keep trips as short as possible.

“In addition, no-one in Central Scotland should be going into anyone else’s home unless it is essential for caring roles or urgent repairs, in which case the appropriate PPE should be worn. We are now seeing rates of coronavirus in Central Scotland that are similar to when we were in full lockdown earlier in the year and the key message remains to keep two metres apart, wash your hands frequently, avoid crowded places and wear face coverings in line with national guidance.”

Dr Foster added that some of the cases we are seeing are probably the result of transmission before enhanced measures were introduced and he is hopeful that the benefits of less social mixing will be seen shortly.

The symptoms of Covid-19 are any of the following:

• A high temperature or fever
• A new, continuous cough
• A loss of, or change in sense of smell or taste

If anyone develops any of the above symptoms, they should self-isolate and book a test as soon as possible at www.nhsinform.scot/test-and-protect or by calling 0800 028 2816.

If the test is negative, self-isolation can end. If the test is positive, Test and Protect staff will provide further information and advice.