Covid Scotland RECAP: Nicola Sturgeon speaks to nation in TV address | Scots facing new covid restrictions | Booster roll out accelerated
Nicola Sturgeon is addressing parliament right now with an update on coronavirus.
She is thought to be introducing new restrictions as the new Covid variant Omicron is predicted to hit the country hard.
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Hide AdThe First Minister will also be on a televised address to the nation this evening.
Follow here for all updates through out the day.
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Omicron Scotland Update Live: Follow here for all updates as the First Minister addresses the nation
“Thirdly, we will continue to consider appropriate protective measures for people in institutional settings – such as care homes – while ensuring that visits can continue.
“Last week we recommended that care staff take lateral flow tests on a daily basis.”
“For hospitals, we are recommending that no more than two people visit a patient at any one time. And again, we are recommending a lateral flow test before each visit.”
“Finally, I understand that Omicron will be especially concerning to people on the Highest Risk List. The Chief Medical Officer will be writing to all of you shortly with further advice and assurance.”
“This is not the update I wanted to be giving just a few days before Christmas.
“And I am painfully aware that it’s not an update anyone wanted to hear.
“However, we have a duty to take decisions - no matter how unpopular - that will get us through this as safely as possible.
“I will not shy away from that responsibility.
“The fact that I am asking for further sacrifice today underlines how severe we think the risk posed by Omicron is.
“So please do follow the advice I have set out today.”
“Also, hard and wearying though this is, we are not powerless in the face of the virus.
“We know the steps we can take to slow it down.”
She advises people to get fully vaccinated and to test regularly.
Wear face coverings.
Keep windows open if meeting people indoors.
Follow hygiene advice.
Work from home if you can.
“We face an extremely difficult period ahead - I can’t tell you otherwise.
“But I know we will get through it more safely, if we do right by each other.
“Let’s pull together again, and help each other through.”
Douglas Ross: Omicron has changed the circumstances.
Clearly more transmissible and could damage the NHS.
He reiterates the need for vaccinations, testing and face covering.
Adds that the booster vaccine is crucial - criticises Scot Gov for not bringing in mass vaccination centres sooner.
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