Dumfries and Galloway Council, the NHS and Police Scotland continue to take all protective steps possible, whilst supporting local businesses to remain open. In a joint statement the partners said: “First and foremost, it is the responsibility of the individual to help stop the spread of covid-19. People should remain vigilant, wash their hands as often as possible, wear face coverings when requested and maintain a physical distance. People must also provide clear and accurate details when requested on visits to restaurants and pubs. By following this guidance we not only help protect ourselves, our friends, our loved ones and our communities from covid, but we also help to ensure these local businesses can function.”
In addition to following the directions, people are encouraged to self-isolate and arrange a test for Covid-19 if they experience any symptoms. Two mobile testing units are carrying out tests daily across the region. All pubs and restaurants are being asked to follow directions aimed at helping to stop the spread and multi-agency teams are visiting local businesses and promoting compliance around Test and Protect, physical distancing and health and safety adaptations. Advice is available to businesses on required alterations and on the legislation.
Leader of Dumfries and Galloway Council Elaine Murray said: “We all need to be extra vigilant at this time. We have already had a cluster of cases in our own region, and we must continue to work together to limit the chances of this happening again. The additional measures are there for everyone’s protection. Although public health is our top priority, we will also do our utmost to support our local businesses to stay open. It is essential that people stay within our region, shop local and stay safe.”
Chief executive of NHS Dumfries and Galloway Jeff Ace has said the region remains in a ‘precarious position’ and residents should guard against complacency. He said: “This is a highly transmissible virus with potentially devastating consequences and we have a population in Dumfries and Galloway which has had very little exposure and therefore has very little immunity. We have seen how quickly the virus can spread despite best preventative efforts, and so we would urge everyone to follow the guidance put in place to help protect us, our loved ones and our communities.”
And chief superintendent Linda Jones, divisional commander of Dumfries and Galloway, said: “Aberdeen going into lockdown is a stark reminder that the virus is still very present and posing a threat to our communities. It also underpins the importance of continuing to follow the Scottish Government guidance.”
Remember to follow the FACTS
• Face coverings in enclosed places
• Avoided crowded places
• Clean hands regularly
• Two metre physical distancing wherever possible
• Self-isolate and book a test if they have any COVID-19 symptoms
