Humza Yousaf has said he will be asking his family to take lateral flow tests before attending for Christmas dinner.
The health secretary made the comment as he indicated that people “have to use their judgement” in making plans during the festive season.
Speaking to STV News, Yousaf remarked that he would not, however, be checking his mother in law’s Covid certification before she comes the door.
“As health secretary, I’m not here to tell you what you can and cannot do in terms of Christmas parties, or how you behave at Christmas parties,” he said.
“That is entirely up to you within the rules, within the guidance, what we’re suggesting… you know, as long as you are obeying those rules, then of course, we’ll be saying to people exercise some caution.
“I’m planning to have Christmas dinner with extended family and of course I will be asking all of my family to do a lateral flow test before.
“I don’t think that’s too onerous. But I won’t be checking my mother in law’s Covid certification before she comes to the door.
“So, I think people just… have to use their judgement, have to be sensible and I trust most people to do just that.”
Yousaf acknowledged concern over the Omicron variant, but reiterated the steps people can take in order to help reduce transmission of the virus.
He said: “Of course we’re concerned. As we have said previously, we don’t doubt that there is community transmission.
“That community transmission is clearly as we are testing more people, as we are looking for that s-gene dropout, which is the proxy measure for omicron cases, we’re identifying more and more cases right across the country.
“So, what can people do to help us out here? They can make sure they get vaccinated, whichever vaccine you’re eligible for – first, second, third booster doses – get yourself vaccinated.
“Test yourself regularly, particularly if you’re going to be socialising, whether that’s indoors or outdoors.
“Make sure you’re wearing your mask in settings that are applicable and appropriate.
“And of course, practice good hygiene. These are the things that you can do to help us to keep transmission under control.”
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