Greens: Testing key to a safe Christmas
The use of lateral flow tests will be key to ensuring the safety of gatherings over the festive period, the Scottish Greens have said.
Proof of a negative lateral flow test has been added to the certification scheme for hospitality settings.
Responding, Scottish Greens health spokesperson Gillian Mackay said: “Throughout the pandemic, the Scottish Greens have called for a cautious approach with effective use of test, trace and isolate as per the guidance from the World Health Organisation.
“With cases still high in Scotland, it’s clear that more needs to be done to ensure that we keep the festive period as safe as possible. This includes making sure that we continue to use face coverings, that those who can work from home continue to do so and that testing and isolating remains a key tool in driving down the infection rate.
“The vaccine certification scheme was introduced as a response to high infection rates and a lack of available alternative options. The Greens have been clear that the option of a negative lateral flow test should be added to the scheme. This will help ease fears about the scheme’s impact on marginalised groups, but also provide a boost to the numbers of people self-testing.
“No one wants the festive period to be ruined by a surge in cases, so it will be important for everyone to be vigilant and use self-testing kits before celebrating together. The expanded certification scheme will enable that.”