Covid Scotland: Everything Nicola Sturgeon said today as most Level 0 restrictions end on August 9
| Author | Sophie Buchan |
| Published date | 03 August 2021 |
| Publication title | GlasgowLive (Scotland) |
She said that the decisions set out today reflects the fact that due to vaccines, "we are now in a different stage of this pandemic.
"Today's decisions are positive and are possible only because of vaccination and the prolonged sacrifices of people across the country.
"Once again, I want to convey my deep appreciation of that."
The news comes after people aged 50 and above as well as those 'at risk' who have had the AstraZeneca vaccine, are set to have boosters - NHS and care home staff are also included.
Ms Sturgeon also explained that as we approach winter, we may face new challenges and as a result, regular testing and being fully vaccinated is our best way to protect against the virus.
After this, "we will safely and securely return to the ways of life that we all value so much."
To keep up-to-date with everything that was said, we've broken down the most important parts of her speech as we prepare to lift most legal restrictions next week.
Latest COVID stats
The total number of positive cases reported yesterday was 1,016 which equals to 8.1% of all tests.
There are 406 people receiving hospital treatment – one fewer than yesterday.
In addition to this, there are 61 people are in intensive care - up one more than yesterday.
Sadly, 9 deaths were reported in the past 24 hours, which takes the total number of deaths registered, under the daily definition, to 7,952.
Thankfully, the number of people in hospital and in intensive care is said to be "declining gradually".
The FM said that this "demonstrates the value of taking a careful and steady approach to easing restrictions."
Vaccination update
4,014,212 people have now received a first dose of the vaccine
3,231,331 have now had both doses.
All over-18-year-olds have had the opportunity to receive at least one dose of the vaccine whilst those over 40 have been offered both doses - something Sturgeon said they had to achieve before the move beyond Level 0.
She said that these "key milestones" were met and vaccination stats has been "exceptional".
90% of over 18-year-olds have now had at least one dose of the vaccine with 72% being fully vaccinated.
Despite the uptake, Sturgeon said that there was still more to be done and that is why there have been walk-in and mobile vaccination centres set up across the country.
Vaccinations of 12 to...
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