Cases have risen in the majority of local authority areas in Scotland over the past week, according to NHS Grampian. 

Susan Webb, director of public health with NHS Grampian, says seven day rates per 100,000 in Grampian compare well at 42 compared to 116 nationally. However we cannot be complacent – we have seen how quickly things can change. Our aim is to look at all signals of change so that we can prevent an accelerating situation.

“Case numbers in Aberdeen have almost doubled in the past week but in Aberdeenshire case numbers remained at similar levels to last week, averaging nine cases per day and a seven day rate of 23 per 100,000.

“We are seeing an increase in the number of multiple small clusters (up to 10 linked cases). This is particularly so in Aberdeen, although there has been some growth in Aberdeenshire. The pattern in Aberdeen shows widespread community transmission with multiple settings, schools and households impacted. Cases are dominated by under 40-year-olds.

“Covid-19 admissions remain low with four admissions since 8 June and of these, two were not vaccinated.  However there are other parts of the health system that are affected by increasing infection rates.

“Almost 378,000 Grampian residents have had one dose of the covid-19 vaccination (80% of all adults) and nearly 267,000 are fully vaccinated (56%).

“Vaccinations remain our main strategy and the aim is have our population fully vaccinated as soon as possible.

“Right now we are paying particular attention to in the north of Aberdeen where two communities in particular are showing high rates. Communities in Tillydrone and Froghill will see enhanced efforts to encourage people forward for asymptomatic testing and to consider individual actions to keep vulnerable people and communities safe from the spread of covid-19.  We are working with multiple groups within these communities to encourage behaviours which will help us all in particular:

• Test yourself twice a week using fast results lateral flow devices
• Get the vaccine if you are offered
• Reduce your contacts and work at home for as much as you can.

“Please encourage people you know to stay as safe as possible – it will help us to get back to normal sooner.”