Concern over rising case numbers

31 Aug 2021

President of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow, Professor Jackie Taylor, has expressed great concern regarding the rising Covid case numbers across the UK and urged people to do all they can to follow the guidance and help prevent the spread of the infection. Scotland appears to be ahead of the curve.

“The increasing number of people testing positive for Covid and the associated rise in hospital admissions is a worry. This latest rise in cases comes against a background of primary care and hospitals already struggling to meet demands. It is uncomfortable to be approaching the winter season from this baseline,” she said.

Earlier this month, trainee doctors across Scotland appealed to young people to get vaccinated following significant concern around the number of young people with Covid they were treating in hospital. Currently, in Scotland we are seeing the highest number of cases reported in the 25-44 group, with those under the age of 44 accounting for more than two thirds of all cases. Associated with this is a secondary rise in hospitalisations in the over 60s who are more vulnerable to the impacts of the virus.

“While we all want to get back to a more normal way of life, it is essential that we continue to do everything that we can to prevent the spread of the virus and protect ourselves, our loved ones and our communities. I appeal to everyone to come forward and ensure you are double vaccinated. By following the simple, consistent guidance to wash our hands, use face coverings, meet outdoors when possible, and continue to be mindful of the number of people we interact with, we can make a difference,” Professor Taylor said.

Both primary and secondary care services are under extreme pressure and it is important that people are informed where to seek help. The NHS Services website: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/ provides information about the various services and where to seek the care required for specific needs including Covid testing and vaccination, GP services, urgent and emergency care, mental health services, dental treatment and hospital appointments.

Category: COVID-19