Coronavirus screening being carried out in Glasgow and Edinburgh has led to 202 tests being completed in the first 10 days since testing began in Scotland.
Previous tests had to be sent to a facility in Colindale, London. The combined total tests from Scotland reached 290 at the close of play yesterday (18 Feb).
Glasgow Royal Infirmary and the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh began screening earlier this month, and has meant that results can be returned more quickly.
Bruce Crawford said:
“I have been assured by the Scottish Government that our NHS is well prepared to cope with any suspected Coronavirus case – with these new screening sites being part of this preparation.
“At this point, all tests taken in Scotland have returned as negative, however this appears to be a highly contagious virus and being prepared to limit any outbreak is crucial.
“I would encourage any constituent who has travelled to areas such as China, Thailand, Japan, Republic of Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia or Macao within the past 14 days to check out the NHS’ Health Protection Scotland website for up-to-date advice.
“Generally, the main advice on helping to reduce the spread of infection for individuals centres on washing your hands – particularly for those who have close contact with vulnerable groups such as older people. However, the NHS website offers more detailed advice on this.”