Question reference: S5W-30723
- Asked by: Tom Arthur, MSP for Renfrewshire South, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 15 July 2020
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Current status: Initiated by the Scottish Government. Answered by John Swinney on 15 July 2020
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what its approach is to monitoring and responding to future outbreaks of COVID-19.
Answer
The latest Public Health Scotland report shows that the number of COVID cases is currently very low in Scotland. However, the virus has not gone away. It could return at any time, and it is vitality important that we all remain vigilant and all continue to follow public health advice.
The approach in Scotland to Surveillance and Response builds on well-developed and effective structures and processes. Strong and efficient data and intelligence; an effective Test and Protect system; measures to trace those who may come in contact with the virus; and good communication. Together this all helps inform and compliment the experience and actions of our public health teams and resilience partnerships.
The Scottish Government will later today publish its Covid-19 Surveillance and Response position statement. This document sets out how existing planning arrangements, structures and national Health Protection guidance will be applied to address the challenges of any COVID 19 outbreak.