UK: Scottish government announces easing of COVID-19 restrictions June 18 /update 25

Event

The Scottish government announced the easing of a number of restrictions introduced due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic on Thursday, June 18. Authorities announced that those living alone may meet with one other household from Friday, June 19. From Monday, June 22, face masks will be compulsory for those using public transport, including taxis. A number of non-essential shops and indoor businesses will be permitted to reopen from June 29. However, this does not include pubs, restaurants, or shopping centers. Members of the public are advised to continue working from home where possible and remain in their local area. Travel beyond more than five miles (8 km) beyond an individual's home for the purposes of leisure and recreation is not permitted; however, this limit does not apply to those visiting family and friends. Tourist activity is currently scheduled to resume on July 15.

As of June 19, health authorities have confirmed 15,742 COVID-19 cases and 2464 associated deaths in Scotland. Further spread of the virus is expected in the near term.

Context

The first case of COVID-19 was reported on December 31 and the source of the outbreak has been linked to a wet market in Wuhan (Hubei province, China). Human-to-human and patient-to-medical staff transmission of the virus have been confirmed. Many of the associated fatalities have been due to pneumonia caused by the virus.

Cases of the virus have been confirmed in numerous countries and territories worldwide. Virus-screening and quarantining measures are being implemented at airports worldwide, as well as extensive travel restrictions. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the global outbreak a pandemic.

Pneumonia symptoms include dry cough, chest pain, fever, and trouble breathing. Pneumonia can be contagious and can be transmitted from human to human. The influenza virus, or the flu, is a common cause of viral pneumonia.

Advice

Measures adopted by local authorities evolve quickly and are usually effective immediately. Depending on the evolution of the outbreak in other countries, authorities are likely to modify, at very short notice, the list of countries whose travelers are subject to border control measures or entry restrictions upon their arrival to the territory in question. It is advised to postpone nonessential travel due to the risk that travelers may be refused entry or be subject to quarantine upon their arrival or during their stay.

To reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, travelers are advised to abide by the following measures:

• Frequently clean hands by applying an alcohol-based hand rub or washing with soap and water.
• When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with a flexed elbow or tissue; if used, throw the tissue away immediately and wash hands.
• If experiencing a fever, cough, difficulty breathing, or any other symptoms suggestive of respiratory illness, including pneumonia, call emergency services before going to the doctor or hospital to prevent the potential spread of the disease.