The highly transmissible Omicron variant has brought additional challenges for everyone throughout Fife in recent months. Reducing the spread of COVID-19 in local communities and protecting vulnerable people have been key priorities of NHS Fife throughout the pandemic.
NHS Fife’s Public Health Department continues to work closely with partners to support care homes and the care home sector throughout the Kingdom. Despite the current challenges, the vast majority of care homes throughout Fife have been able to remain open and accessible for regular visiting.
Fiona Bellamy, Senior Health Protection Nurse Specialist, with NHS Fife Public Health, said:
“We know that spending time with those who matter the most and maintaining regular contact is so important for care home residents and their families.
“Where there are outbreaks, we are providing support and advice to ensure a strong level of protection for care home residents. This means that, at times, some care homes may have had to close to new admissions, or have had restricted visiting introduced to protect residents. The safety and wellbeing of care home residents in Fife remains a priority.”
The dedication and care of everyone involved from members of staff to families and friends, plus attention to the latest guidance, is making a difference.
In the weeks and months ahead, NHS Fife Public Health will continue to work closely with colleagues in the care home sector, constantly monitoring and assessing the situation to keep everyone safe.
Paying tribute to the ongoing efforts of family, friends and staff to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and look after care home residents throughout Fife, Dr Joy Tomlinson, Director of Public Health, NHS Fife, said:
“Everyone hoping to visit someone in a care home should continue to take an LFD test before visiting
“Anyone testing positive or with COVID symptoms should immediately self-isolate, take a PCR test and wait for the result to help protect the vulnerable members of our communities. Together we can help Fife keep heading in the right direction.”
