Coronavirus: People with symptoms no longer routinely tested in Scotland
Those with "mild" symptoms of the Covid-19 illness should no longer seek medical help unless their condition deteriorates, according to new advice.
Only those admitted to hospital with flu-like symptoms and breathing difficulties, NHS staff and "key workers", will be routinely tested for Covid-19 as part of the updated testing policy.
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Hide AdScotland's chief medical officer said that the move to "surveillance testing" as part of the delay-phase response means that people with "mild symptoms" no longer need to be tested.
It is claimed that expanded surveillance testing at GP surgeries "will provide real-time information on how the virus is spreading in Scotland", although at this stage it is unclear how it will work in practice.
People with symptoms of the coronavirus infection, which include repeated dry coughing and a fever or high temperature, are being told to self-isolate for seven days and only seek medical help if their condition worsens.
Dr Catherine Calderwood said: "This new approach to testing will enable us to understand the pattern and spread of coronavirus in the community, to develop a clear assessment of the situation and to predict the peak number of cases, without having to test everyone with possible symptoms.
"Those with mild symptoms do not need to be tested. They should continue to stay at home for seven days and only contact their GP or 111 if their condition worsens.
"Everybody has a role to play in helping contain this outbreak by following the latest health advice and basic hygiene precautions such as washing hands frequently, not touching their face and covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing."
The updated testing policy will still see those who are admitted to hospital with serious symptoms tested to confirm whether they have the virus.
NHS staff and other key workers will also continue to be tested if they show symptoms.
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