We use cookies to collect anonymous data to help us improve your site browsing experience.

Click 'Accept all cookies' to agree to all cookies that collect anonymous data. To only allow the cookies that make the site work, click 'Use essential cookies only.' Visit 'Set cookie preferences' to control specific cookies.

Set cookie preferences

Your cookie preferences have been saved. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Publication - Advice and guidance

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

Last updated
22 September 2023 - see all updates
Part of
Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Scotland, Public safety and emergencies

How to reduce the risk of respiratory infections including coronavirus (COVID-19) to keep ourselves and each other well.

This document is part of a collection

What to do if you suspect you have COVID-19

If you have symptoms of a respiratory infection, including COVID-19 try to stay at home and avoid contact with others. If you do have to go out, wear a well fitting face covering.

Get advice about COVID-19  symptoms and staying at home (previously self-isolating) from the NHS.

Free COVID-19 testing has ended for most people in Scotland with and without COVID-19 symptoms.

You can still access testing if you have a health condition which means you’re eligible for coronavirus treatments.

First published
24 August 2021
Last updated
22 September 2023 - show all updates

  1. Face coverings page updated to add that face coverings exemption card scheme closed.

  2. Face coverings page updated to add that face coverings exemption card scheme will close on 22 September.

  3. Title updated.

  4. Updated page if you suspect you have COVID-19 to reflect who can access testing.

  5. Updated to reflect current stage of pandemic.

  6. Minor update to overview.

  7. Minor updates to all sections.

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

  9. Minor changes to page.

  10. Ventilation guidance updated.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  22. Updated definition of 'fully vaccinated'.

  23. Updated to explain changes from 17 January 2022.

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

  25. Updated to reflect current position.

  26. Updated information on places of worship.

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

  28. Updated information on face coverings for performers.

  29. Added link to organised activities for children guidance.

  30. Updated to reflect 2m face covering rule.

  31. Updated to include guidance for the festive period

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

  33. Updated to include work Christmas party advice.

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

  35. Translations added.

  36. Travel section updated.

  37. Updated information on events.

  38. Added information on covid vaccination certification scheme.

  39. Added information on vaccine certification.

  40. Additional clarification on face coverings and performers added.

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

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

  43. Updated guidance with additional information.

  44. Expanded guidance for health and social care settings.

Back to top