NHS Forth Valley today reminded people of the key protections already in place that are essential in reducing the spread of Covid-19, following cases of the new Omicron variant being identified in Scotland.

Supporting the Scottish Government’s new Living Safely for Us All campaign, Dr Graham Foster, NHS Forth Valley’s Director of Public Health, encouraged local people across Forth Valley to play their part by stepping up their efforts to curb transmission.

The campaign reinforces the key guidance on how to stay safe, and how people can protect themselves, their loved ones and those around them, particularly those at highest risk in their community.

This includes taking regular lateral flow tests, particularly before mixing with people from other households, and staying at home if the test is positive. People are being encouraged to meet others outdoors, let fresh air in if mixing with other households indoors, and work from home if possible.

Other key protections include booking an appointment for the Covid-19 booster vaccine if you are eligible, cleaning your hands regularly, wearing a face covering where required, and self-isolating immediately if you have Covid-19 symptoms, and booking a PCR test.

Dr Graham Foster, NHS Forth Valley’s Director of Public Health, said: “We’re appealing to people to live safely for us all. It’s really important to follow the key Covid-19 protections already in place to help keep you and others safe and prevent the spread of this new variant.

“If you are eligible and not yet vaccinated, booking an appointment to get your Covid-19 vaccine remains the best way to protect yourself from the virus, and stepping up efforts to comply with the guidance in place, particularly testing before meeting up with others, is vital in helping protect communities, and the NHS.”

For more information on staying safe and protecting others, visit www.gov.scot/coronavirus

Additional Information

The Scottish Government ‘Living Safely For Us All’ campaign which is live now across TV, print and digital channels, encourages everyone to adopt key actions and behaviours to reduce the spread in our communities. The Living Safely for Us All has been backed by individuals who have shared the small but important actions they take every day to keep their loved ones, those at highest risk and their community safe. You can view the Living Safely for Us All film which highlights the actions of individuals to stay safe, and protect others, here.