Test and Protect is Scotland's approach to preventing the spread of coronavirus in the community.
Introduction
Test and Protect is Scotland’s way of putting into practice the test, trace, isolate, support strategy.
It will prevent the spread of coronavirus in the community by:
- identifying cases of coronavirus through testing
- tracing the people who may have become infected by spending time in close contact with them
- supporting those close contacts to self-isolate, so that if they have the disease they are less likely transmit it to others
This will allow us to gradually change the restrictions that help to suppress the virus, and instead to contain it so that society and the economy can avoid a return to lockdown.
Testing
Anyone with symptoms of coronavirus should be tested. You can book a test for:
- yourself
- someone you care for
- a child in your care
Access to testing
Tracing
Contact tracing is a process for identifying people who are at risk of coronavirus infection because they‘ve had enough contact with a person who has tested positive. These people will be given advice to help reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
Contract tracing is a well-established public health intervention. Health protection teams have a lot of experience delivering contact tracing for a range of infectious diseases.
Contact tracing is part of the national Test and Protect approach to containing the virus.
Isolating
It’s very important that you stay at home if you have symptoms that may be caused by coronavirus or you live with someone that has symptoms. Household isolation will help to control the spread of the virus to friends, the wider community and the most vulnerable.
Follow this advice if you:
- have symptoms that may be caused by coronavirus but don’t need hospital treatment
- live with someone who has symptoms that may be caused by coronavirus
Support
Many people will be able to self-isolate with the help of nearby family, friends or neighbours.
If you need support but cannot get this from friends or family, phone the National Assistance Helpline (0800 111 4000) or textphone (0800 111 4114). The helpline is open from 9.00am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday.
More ways to get support for you or someone you know through Ready Scotland.
Further information
You can find out more about Test and Protect through the Scottish Government.
A leaflet and step-by-step guide to Test and Protect is also available in a range of languages and formats, including easy read and British Sign Language (BSL).