Covid-19: Moray moving into level two restrictions

Moray is going to move into level two coronavirus restrictions from midnight tonight (Friday).

The region had been kept in level three while Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire moved to level two earlier this week, due to an outbreak in the area.

But the first minister has confirmed that the area will have more of its rules relaxed in time for the weekend.

It means all regions across Grampian will be in level two.

Chris Littlejohn, deputy director of public health, said: "I have no doubt this will be incredibly welcome news for the people of Moray.

"Bringing case numbers back down has been a community effort; public bodies like the NHS and local councils can put in every measure we like, but without community support they will not make the same difference. Thank you to everyone in the area for all that they have done. 

"I hope the behaviour we have seen in Moray becomes a habit for people, not just there, but across the Grampian region. Accessing regular asymptomatic testing is vital, especially when one in three people with Covid-19 display no symptoms.

"Please don’t think one negative result is enough; regular testing will stop this virus in its tracks. Early detection of cases allows our contact tracing teams to work quickly and provide self-isolation guidance, breaking the chain of transmission. 

"This message applies not just to people living locally, but to all visitors to the area. With the lifting of travel restrictions in Moray, all parts of Grampian are open to visitors.

"This is a beautiful part of the world and we are happy to share, but that comes with an ask to anyone staying in the area to please access testing, either via community facilities or by ordering test kits via the UK Government website.

"Finally, if you develop any of the symptoms of Covid-19, isolate and arrange a PCR test as soon as possible."

Glasgow is remaining in level three for at least another week due to a concern about case numbers there.