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Students returning to Ayrshire this Christmas have been urged to come home Covid free.
Health chiefs have asked students to take a lateral flow test (LFT) before making their journey from their universities and colleges.
NHS Ayrshire & Arran say there will be a higher risk of infections from Covid-19 when students return home to catch up with friends and family.
The health board has advised students to take an LFT before starting their journey – particularly if they are travelling by public transport.
Students have also been encouraged to also take regular tests when enjoying the festivities back in their home towns and villages.
Lisa Davidson, assistant director of public health, said: “Covid-19 won’t take a break this Christmas and New Year, so we are asking students returning to Ayrshire and Arran to test themselves for Covid-19 to avoid spreading it to family and friends.
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“Getting a test is quick, free and easy and we would encourage anyone that is travelling, particularly by public transport, to take a lateral flow test before starting their journey.
“We know that this time of year is very exciting as students return home and catch up with friends and family, but this also means there is an increased chance of spreading the virus.
“While we want people to enjoy themselves, we also need them to stay safe and keep others safe by preventing viral spread so we would like to remind everyone that if you’re going to be celebrating with friends and family, to make sure you take a lateral flow test before you meet.
“This way we can all reduce the risk of unknowingly spreading the virus to other people.”
It comes as First Minister Nicola Sturgeon warned Scots to stay at home on the eve of Omicron becoming the dominant variant in Scotland.
NHS Ayrshire & Arran say lateral flow tests are available at asymptomatic test sites which will be closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day and on New Year’s Day, 2022 and January 2.
For more information on lateral flow testing, visit https://www.nhsaaa.net/coronavirus-covid-19/testing/
Ms Davidson added: “Regular testing will help ensure that you, your family and loved ones are able to enjoy the safest Christmas and New Year possible
“It’s also very important that you get tested and isolate immediately if you have symptoms to keep your loved ones safe.”
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