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Publication - Advice and guidance

Coronavirus (COVID-19): staying well and protecting others

Last updated 24 April 2023 - see all updates
Part of
Coronavirus in Scotland, Public safety and emergencies

How to keep ourselves and each other safe from coronavirus (COVID-19).

This document is part of a collection

Overview

All Covid rules and restrictions have been lifted in Scotland, but the virus has not gone away. Viruses can spread more in indoor places. It is important that we keep doing the things that keep us all safe from Covid and other viruses.

To protect yourself and keep others safe:

  • if you have symptoms of a virus, cold or flu, try to stay at home and avoid contact with others – if you do need to go out, wear a well-fitting face covering
  • get your vaccines if offered to ensure you are fully protected
  • follow the latest NHS guidance if you are feeling unwell – and know how to get the right care in the right place
  • wear a face covering in indoor public places and on public transport
  • socialise in well-ventilated spaces where possible
  • try to maintain at least 1 metre physical distancing and give more space and care around those using the Distance Aware scheme
  • consider how many people are gathered in spaces and try to avoid overcrowded areas
  • wash your hands and clean surfaces regularly
  • know where to get support for your mental health and money worries
  • look out for spaces that display Stay Well Signage to let you know what measures they are taking to make spaces safer for all
First published
24 August 2021
Last updated
24 April 2023 - show all updates

  1. Minor update to overview.

  2. Minor updates to all sections.

  3. Minor update to text on the overview page re: busier areas/heating.

  4. Minor changes to page.

  5. Ventilation guidance updated.

  6. Changes to page: If you suspect you have Covid

  7. Updated to reflect the current situation with testing and staying at home.

  8. Guidance restored from archive and re purposed to include latest guidance on reducing risks from transmitting COVID-19.

  9. Edits made to comply with gov.scot writing style guide

  10. Changes made to reflect move to hybrid working introduced from 31 January.

  11. Updated in light of changes being introduced from 28 January.

  12. Updated to summarise changes from 28 and 31 January covering face covering exemptions and home working.

  13. Updated to provide more detail on changes to measures from 24 January 2022.

  14. Updated to summarise changes that will come into place from 24 January 2022.

  15. Updated to reflect latest position on the COVID certification scheme and events.

  16. Meeting people guidance updated to reflect latest position and removal of guidance on travel to events in other parts of the UK.

  17. Updated definition of 'fully vaccinated'.

  18. Updated to explain changes from 17 January 2022.

  19. Self-isolation information updated to reflect latest position.

  20. Updated to reflect current position.

  21. Updated information on places of worship.

  22. Updated following First Minister's statement on 21 December 2021.

  23. Updated information on face coverings for performers.

  24. Added link to organised activities for children guidance.

  25. Updated to reflect 2m face covering rule.

  26. Updated to include guidance for the festive period

  27. Updated to includes changes announced by the First Minister on 14 December 2021.

  28. Updated to include work Christmas party advice.

  29. Going to work section updated to reflect latest position.

  30. Translations added.

  31. Travel section updated.

  32. Updated information on events.

  33. Added information on covid vaccination certification scheme.

  34. Added information on vaccine certification.

  35. Additional clarification on face coverings and performers added.

  36. Added information on the temporary removal of face coverings during wedding ceremonies.

  37. Updated guidance with additional information on self-isolation.

  38. Updated guidance with additional information.

  39. Expanded guidance for health and social care settings.

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