TUESDAY, 2 SEPTEMBER, 2020

For immediate release:

COVID-19 Student Residence Outbreak

NHS Tayside’s Health Protection Team is investigating a single positive case and a small number of suspected cases of COVID-19 linked to private student accommodation, Parker House in Dundee. Close contacts of the positive case, who is a student of Abertay University, are being contacted.

Contact tracing is currently underway. Due to the higher risk of transmission of the virus in shared student accommodation, the decision has been made to ask all 500 residents of Parker House to self-isolate until further contact tracing has been completed.

Dr Daniel Chandler, Associate Director of Public Health said, “We know from outbreaks in other university settings across Scotland that the virus can spread very quickly in student accommodation. Therefore, as a precautionary measure, we are contacting all residents of Parker House and advising them to self-isolate immediately.

“Further investigation and contact tracing are continuing and we will review this advice in the coming days. It is really important that any residents who develop symptoms book a test as soon as possible.”

Professor Nigel Seaton, Principal of Abertay University, said, “Our students in Parker House are being supported to self-isolate safely and we will remain in regular daily contact with them.

“The University already has enhanced cleaning and safety measures in place on campus, in line with national guidance, and the campus will remain open. We have contacted students and staff to remind them of their personal responsibilities in relation to Covid safety and to inform them of today’s changes in Scottish Government guidance.”

What you should do if you have symptoms:

Anyone who has any of the following symptoms should book a test at nhsinform.scot/test-and-protect or call 0800 028 2816 if they are unable to access the online service:

• a high temperature or fever

• a new continuous cough 

• a loss of, or change, in sense of smell or taste

Remember the FACTS guidance:

F – Face coverings. These should be used in shops and on public transport (buses, trains and taxis)

A – Avoid crowded places

C – Clean your hands frequently, using water and soap whenever possible

T – Two metres – observe physical distancing

S – Self-isolate and book a test if you are suffering from COVID-19 symptoms

NHS Tayside Communications
(01382) 424138