Coronavirus testing in Scotland: can people get tested for Covid-19

Here is the latest advice on what to do if you experience any symptoms which are consistent with the coronavirus.

You may not show signs of coronavirus when infected - here's why

What should I do if I think I have coronavirus?

You should stay at home for 7 days if you have either a high temperature or a new, continuous cough.

“Do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital” advises the NHS.

If your symptoms are severe, if you experience shortness of breath, if your condition worsens or does not improve after 7 days, you should contact either NHS 111 or your GP either online or by phone.

There is not need to contact NHS 111 or your GP to inform them that you are self-isolating so long as these criteria do not apply.

What tests are being carried out in Scotland?

The Scottish government have confirmed that there will now be no routine coronavirus testing of those with mild symptoms, while "surveillance testing" will be carried out to monitor the spread of the virus through communities.

This will allow patients to be tested by their local GP, with the new testing programme involving 200 GPs and covering up to 1.2 million people across Scotland.

Scotland’s Chief Medical Officer, Catherine Calderwood, said: “This new approach to testing will enable us to understand the pattern and spread of coronavirus in the community, to develop a clear assessment of the situation and to predict the peak number of cases, without having to test everyone with possible symptoms.”

Key workers, such as NHS staff, will continue to be regularly tested.

Coronavirus: the facts

What is coronavirus?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What caused coronavirus?

The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus, like others of its kind, has come from animals.

How is it spread?

As this is such a new illness, experts still aren’t sure how it is spread. But similar viruses are spread in cough droplets. Therefore covering

your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and disposing of used tissues straight away is advised. Viruses like coronavirus cannot live

outside the body for very long.

What are the symptoms?

The NHS states that the symptoms are: a dry cough, high temperature and shortness of breath - but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you

have the illness.

Look out for flu-like symptoms, such as aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose and a sore throat. It’s important to remember that some people may become infected but won’t develop any symptoms or feel unwell.

What precautions can be taken?

Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly. The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands)

when you cough or sneeze; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell.

Also avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth unless your hands are clean.

Should I avoid public places?

Most people who feel well can continue to go to work, school and public places and should only stay at home and self isolate if advised by a medical professional or the coronavirus service.

What should I do if I feel unwell?

Don’t go to your GP but instead call NHS 111 or look online at the coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and what to do next.

When to call NHS 111

NHS 111 should be used if you feel unwell with coronavirus symptoms, have been in a country with a high risk of coronavirus in the last 14 days or if you have been in close contact with someone with the virus.

Sources: World Health Organisation and NHS