Two of Covid’s biggest policies in Scotland have been changing since Monday, April 18, with the end of the mandate for masks and free rapid tests.
Face coverings will become guidelines from tomorrow, after being a legal requirement for almost two years.
Access to free rapid tests will also be a conclusion for most people in Scotland.
However, Humza Youssef believes that Scots will continue to wear them voluntarily after Nicola Sturgeon called for masks to be worn in enclosed public places – even if it is no longer mandatory.
The health minister said he was “making the right decision” in a statement on BBC Radio Scotland’s Sunday show today.
The changes follow after England released face masks in late January.
The rules for face masks end in Scotland
Scotland repeals face mask rules on April 18, confirmed Nicola Sturgeon (Image: POOL / AFP via Getty Images) Read more Related articles Read more related articles
On April 18, face coverage will no longer be required by law in closed public places and on public transport.
The Prime Minister confirmed that the end of the rules on face masks will continue as planned.
Sturgeon issued a statement on April 13, saying: “In recent weeks, we have seen steady progress as we return to a greater sense of normalcy and a more sustainable way to manage this virus.
“However, our NHS is still under pressure and the most vulnerable members of our society can still benefit from additional virus protection measures.
Masks will no longer be required in indoor public places from Monday, the 18th (Image: Getty Images)
She continued: “Therefore, although the use of face masks will become a guideline rather than a legal requirement, I strongly recommend that the public continue to wear face masks indoors where possible, and especially when a significant number of people are present.
The minister said Scots should continue to follow the latest advice on hygiene, ventilation, testing and vaccination.
Before that, if you are caught without a mask, you can get a fine of £ 60.
No more free quick sidestream tests
Say goodbye to free quick sidestream tests (Image: Getty Images / iStockphoto) Read more related articles Read more related articles
NHS Scotland’s guidelines are to do sideflow tests (LFTs) twice a week.
Asymptomatic people are encouraged to use rapid tests, as one in three people show no signs.
However, the Scottish Government puts an end to the free LFT on 18 April.
There are limited circumstances in which tests will be available, such as when testing continues to be recommended, including clinical care, health and social workers, and for people visiting vulnerable people in nursing homes or hospitals.
By the end of April, management said people with symptoms should be isolated and have a PCR test.
Further changes in Covid – PCR and test sites are forthcoming
Scots with Covid symptoms can book PCR tests until April 30.
After that date, the Scottish Government says people with symptoms do not need testing.
The test sites will be closed and people who are not well will be asked to stay at home.
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