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Daily Record
Daily Record
National
Mya Bollan

Three key points from Nicola Sturgeon's Covid statement this afternoon

The First Minister today gave a statement in order to update the country on Scotland's coronavirus situation.

With case numbers reaching record highs during the Christmas period, there was some uncertainty over whether tighter restrictions would be introduced.

Sturgeon revealed the Omicron variant is now responsible for 80 per cent of Covid-19 cases in Scotland, warning that the spread of the strain is "developing rapidly".

However, the First Minister confirmed she will not introduce tougher restrictions at this stage.

Reasoning the decision, Sturgeon explained the situation in Scotland's hospitals was "broadly stable".

Despite no change in rules, the First Minister's announcement included three key points.

Here is all you need to know to keep up-to-date.

No change to self isolation rules in Scotland

The First Minister and her Government have been questioned over the continued ten day quarantine requirements in Scotland.

The ten day rule for people who test positive for covid and their household contacts was introduced in response to spiralling Omicron infection levels.

England previously reduced their isolation time frame to seven days.

However, Nicola Sturgeon today confirmed that the rules will not be changed in Scotland at this stage.

Instead, the First Minister said she hoped any decision on reducing the ten day quarantine period will be taken in the next week.

The pressure comes as businesses across the country struggle with staff absences due to self-isolation requirements.

The policy is creating staffing issues in both the NHS and the private sector.

Scots can meet-up on Hogmanay

Scots will be allowed to meet-up on Hogmanay to toast the New Year as Nicola Sturgeon today confirmed restrictions remain the same.

However, the First Minister has urged the public to limit their social gathering to three households as Scotland recorded another record high of positive covid tests with over 15,000.

Covid testing 'prioritised for essential workers'

Nicola Sturgeon today announced that Covid testing will be prioritised for essential workers.

It comes as test supply and processing capacity comes "under pressure".

Sturgeon said: “The current surge in cases means testing capacity – sampling and processing – is under pressure.

“So we are now prioritising some slots for essential workers – such as NHS and transport staff – as well as for those who are clinically vulnerable or eligible for new Covid treatments.

“This ensures that essential workers get the test results they need to qualify for an exemption promptly.”

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