Rapid coronavuirus testing project underway at Fife care homes

Rapid testing for coronavirus is underway at Fife’s care homes, it has been confirmed - and it could mean a number of residents having to isolate.

A pilot project is now underway in the Kingdom which includes checks on staff

A total of 66 people have died in care homes in Fife since the virus took hold.

The update on the test, trace and isolate programme was given to Fife Council’s policy and co-ordination committee which met online for the very first time since lockdown began over eight weeks ago.

Steve Grimmond, chief executive, said numbers weren’t yet available but the programme was being rolled out at pace, and it could come with a bill for the local authority.

It would incorporate constant testing and re-testing “on a rapid base” he said, adding: “The public health advice I have is that is happening at speed.

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He added: “As test and trace is rolled out, it is expected a significant number of residents will be encouraged to isolate - and it is the isolate and support elements that the we are exploring.

“The work around shielding is how we utilise the existing model to provide isolation and support to individuals who come through this initiative.”

Mr Grimmond said this may mean extra cost for the council, depending on the volume of individuals requiring support.

He said: “Not everyone who isolates will need support - that may come from friends and family - but we are looking at potential; costs to make case for full funding from the Scottish Government. That is alive piece of work to see what it means for Fife.”

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