Latest virus update from Public Health Wales

Public Health Wales statement on Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak

This statement will be updated daily at 2pm

Updated: 2:00pm Friday 27 March

Dr Robin Howe, Incident Director for the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak response at Public Health Wales, said:

“180 new cases have tested positive for Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Wales, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 921, although the true number of cases is likely to be higher. 

“Six further deaths have been reported to us of people who had tested positive for Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), taking the number of deaths in Wales to 34.

“We offer our condolences to families and friends affected, and we ask those reporting on the situation to respect patient confidentiality.

“We realise how important it is to keep people updated, and we can confirm that around 5,000 Coronavirus tests have so far been carried out in Wales. 

“We are looking at ways of providing information for the public and media in a routine or automated way, and we ask that the public and media bear with us while these systems are put in place.

“Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) is now circulating in every part of Wales.  The single most important action we can all take in fighting Coronavirus is to stay at home in order to protect the NHS, and save lives.

“Members of the public must adhere to social distancing rules about staying at home, and away from others, introduced by the UK and Welsh Government.  These rules are available on the Public Health Wales website.

“People no longer need to contact NHS 111 if they think they may have contracted Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).  Information about the symptoms to look out for is available on the Public Health Wales website, or members of the public can use the NHS Wales symptom checker.

“Anyone with a suspected coronavirus illness should not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital.  They should only contact NHS 111 if they feel they cannot cope with their symptoms at home, their condition gets worse, or their symptoms do not get better after seven days.

“Only call 999 if you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, do not call 999 just because you are on hold to 111.  We appreciate that 111 lines are busy, but you will get through after a wait.

“The public play a very important role in slowing the spread of infection. By strictly following the latest measures, you will protect yourself, protect the most vulnerable and help to reduce the pressure on NHS Wales and minimise the impact of the virus.”

Numbers of confirmed cases by local health board

Health board	New cases	Cumulative cases
Aneurin Bevan	74	432
Betsi Cadwaladr	20	45
Cardiff and Vale	38	194
Cwm Taf Morgannwg	14	68
Hywel Dda	7	52
Powys	2	18
Swansea Bay	18	93
Resident outside Wales	1	6
To be confirmed	6	13
Wales Total	179	915
Total	180	921

North Wales Police turns back cars trying to enter the country without a good reason

* North Wales Police officers on border patrol this morning. 

North Wales Police have been patrolling the Wales/England borders this morning and turning back motorists who don't have a good enough reason for trying to enter the country.

On a Facebook post the force says: "Officers from HGC Tim Rhwystro / NWP Intercept Team and HGC Uned Plismona'r Ffyrdd / NWP Roads Policing Unit are currently carrying out a joint operation on the borders, stopping and speaking to drivers coming into North Wales.

"Sadly, some are continuing to ignore the #StayHomeSaveLives message as several have been stopped and turned around due to them just coming here for their 'holiday'.

This is unacceptable.

North Wales is currently closed. PLEASE STAY HOME.

Please share

#COVID19 #NorthWalesIsClosed"

County creates online workouts for the lockdown

Denbighshire Leisure have created a series of free online videos and useful fitness tips to ensure their customers stay active during Covid-19.

The leisure company hopes that these fitness videos, digital work-outs and daily fitness tips will give people an opportunity to keep moving and healthy at home, with exercises for all ages and abilities.

Over 14 videos have been filmed and edited, including HIIT workouts, strength training, stretching, low and high intensity sessions and also the important warm ups and cool downs. The exercises range from low to high impact, including shorter work outs for those who have limited time or space at home.

While you cannot beat the experience of working out in a gym or attending a fitness class, these videos will show people how to make the most of the space you have at home, as well as using items within the home to help with your work out, including bottles of water or cans of beans instead of dumbbells.

Jamie Groves, Managing Director of Denbighshire Leisure Ltd, said: “We are committed to providing a service to our members and our residents during this difficult time. Following Government advice, people are not able to come to the gym or take a fitness class, so we have brought their fitness classes and gym sessions for them.

“We hope these videos will keep our members active, focussed and healthy until we’re able to open again in the future. Our dedicated staff have put together a number of dynamic fitness videos for everyone of all abilities to try at home, we hope this virtual replacement will be enough to keep people engaged and raise their spirits during this difficult time. We hope everyone stays safe and well and look forward to seeing them again when we reopen.”

Councillor Bobby Feeley, cabinet member for well-being and independence at Denbighshire County Council, said: “There is a real link between leisure and people’s health and well-being and there is clearly a demand in our communities for classes and leisure activities, so it is fantastic that Denbighshire Leisure are bringing people’s workouts to their homes through social media. It’s a great initiative from the Denbighshire Leisure staff and I know this will be appreciated by the community as well as people who are working from home.”

These workouts are free to everyone and can be accessed through the Denbighshire Leisure website or Denbighshire Leisure Facebook page.

All fitness membership direct debits have now been frozen until further notice. Further to this, Denbighshire Leisure is working with TechnoGym to provide Denbighshire Leisure members with exclusive access to digital MyWellness workouts, This service is free of charge and offered to current members through their MyWellness app.

* Video links can be accessed here.

Llangollen Eisteddfod postponed until 2021 due to virus threat

Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod has been postponed until next year due to the coronavirus crisis.

A statement from the eisteddfod issued this morning says: "Following the latest government advice about the Coronavirus pandemic, we have made the decision to postpone the 74th Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in July 2020.  We are now working hard with our partners and artists to reschedule for Llangollen 2021.

"LIME’s founding mission was to bring diverse people together through shared music and dance experiences; it’s disheartening to put on hold what we do best. We would like to apologise to those who have been affected by our postponement and thank audiences for their understanding. As ever, we are grateful for your support.

"In the end, the decision was easy to make because it was, and is, all about the people who are at the heart of our International Eisteddfod. Our amazing audiences, loyal and supportive, who come every year to our small town nestled within the Dee Valley. Our ‘Parade of Nations’ - our international participants, who range from Loughgiel Folk Dancers in Northern Ireland to Mother Touch Dance Group in Zimbabwe: East Tennessee State University Youth Choir to Johns’ Boys in Rhosllanerchrugog.  

"Our concert artists, stage performers and traders, who have shown grace and understanding during an incredibly hard time across their sectors. Our local groups, schools and community, who each year work together with us to ensure access and enjoyment of our Eisteddfod for all. And last, but not least, our small dedicated staff team and almost 800 volunteers, who work tirelessly each year to achieve the great feat of putting on this International Eisteddfod.  These people are why we must postpone, to protect and to keep safe.

"We enter a period of unprecedented uncertainty. The one thing this year has taught us is just how destabilising uncertainty can be, uncertainty about our safety, our health and our financial security.   Over the next few weeks and months, we will do everything we can to support our artists, staff and community.

"Over the coming month, we will be are contacting affected customers by email or phone to advise on the next steps, refunds and rescheduling options. Due to the high volume of enquiries, and enforced home working, we urge customers not to contact us but we will be in touch as soon as possible and will endeavour to provide the most efficient customer service we can.

We will also post updates to our website and social media channels."

Bookstart sessions in Denbighshire continue online

Hundreds of Denbighshire families have taken part in a livestream story and singing session for babies and toddlers.

Denbighshire County Council’s library service streamed a Bookstart Rhymetime session for parents and children on Facebook on March 24 with 200 watching live and more than 4,000 views in the following days.

The library service’s Donna Hughes-Jones shared stories, songs and rhymes and gave happy birthday greetings to some of the children who usually attend the sessions in the county’s libraries.

Cllr Huw Hilditch-Roberts, the Council’s lead member for Education, Children's Services and Public Engagement, said: “I’m pleased the livestream rhymetime session was such a success.

“This is a great example of the council continuing to provide services at this time and I’d like to thank staff in the library service for ensuring these sessions are continuing to take place.

“These sessions give families with young children a chance to recreate the popular library Bookstart sessions in their own homes, sharing songs rhymes and stories to help very young children develop their early language and speech in both Welsh and English.

“The children see a familiar face sharing familiar songs – and the sessions are great fun for the whole family at home. The response from families has been very positive.

“I’d encourage parents to keep checking our social media channels to find out about future sessions.”

The team have also recorded new song and story videos which will be added to the Denbighshire Bookstart YouTube channel over the next weeks.

* You can re-watch the session on Facebook by searching for Dechrau Da Sir Ddinbych / Denbighshire Bookstart.

Coronavirus crisis - Friday update

The emergency online appeal set up by the Llangollen Coronavirus Help Group so it can continue providing a lifeline to vulnerable people during the crisis raised almost £1,000 within just 24 hours.

Launched late on Wednesday by co-ordinator Cat Meade on the Gofundme charity site with a target of £2,000, the appeal currently stands at over £1,100 and is still rising.

A delighted Cat said: “Let’s get another £1,000 to keep the support going.

“Money is supporting food packages, supplies, PPE equipment for volunteers - vital items to run the service etc.”

She added: “We’re also very pleased to see Home Bargains in the town limiting the number of customers and we would like to see all local shops follow their lead.”

* You can make a donation at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/llangollen-covid-19-support-group?utm_source=facebook&fbclid=IwAR0YENQ0t613PD60Z-zaJgDm4smL4MYntALgiX40fAtbCQHPTs-x4pJHEQE

“A HUGE WELL DONE LLANGOLLEN.”

Earlier yesterday, Cat posted on Facebook: “The updated Support Group letter along with a information leaflet will be distributed by our fantastic posties on Friday. Thank you to Charlie at the Town Council for printing all 6,000 pages.

“PRESCRIPTIONS - Please ensure you have checked with the pharmacy that your medication is ready for collection, prior to making a request for delivery.

“NEWSPAPERS - Newsagents have put a temporary hold on any further requests, we will update on this next week.

“VOLUNTEERS - Huge thank you to all those helping daily, lots of jobs to delegate in 24hrs, they all jump to the task and do so kindly.

“DONATIONS - Co-op Llangollen have donated a huge amount of bread. Thank you.

“Local resident has kindly donated 100 pouches of Felix sensations cat food pouches, if your cat could benefit please contact our volunteer Pip Waller on here or call 07973 480097 to arrange (max 5 per cat).

“Dee Valley Fruit & Veg have had another busy day delivering to residents, volunteers are now on board to assist with demand. NOTE - orders after Thursday will be out for delivery Mon/Tues next week, the team are working 12hr days to keep up with demand.

“FOOD BANK - 07710 789854. Open 2-2.30pm Mon, Weds, Fri & Sun. Please DO NOT go without food.

“REMINDER - please only take assistance from a volunteer registered with the support group, if you are unsure call the support line on 01978 861366.

“Great sign on the bridge.”

* The message now being displayed on the electronic board by the bridge.
Picture by Llangollen Coronavirus Help Group.

On a jarring note, help group volunteer Paula Lingard put out the following message yesterday: “We have some lovely youngsters in Llangollen and surrounding areas who have been extremely helpful to the old and vulnerable and we applaud you.

“BUT please be aware that it has been known that there are a group of youngsters offering their help and pocketing the money.

"BE VIGILANT. ONLY ACCEPT HELP FROM SOMEONE YOU KNOW AND TRUST OR FROM OUR HELPLINE SUPPORT NUMBERS OR EMAIL.”

Volunteers at Zero Food Waste and Food Share Llangollen put out their own message on Facebook: “We are now OPEN 2pm - 2.30pm at Pengwern Community Centre every Monday, Wednesday,  Friday and Sunday.

“We are here to help everyone who is struggling and we understand that the current crisis has put many more people in financial difficulty. 

“We have enough supplies to support everyone in need. Please point people in our direction if they are struggling, including over 70s, people in isolation and anyone who is vulnerable, or contact us on their behalf.

“You can message us using the message button on our Facebook page or phone us on 07710 789 854.  We will respond as soon as we can.  Please be patient, we are run entirely by unpaid volunteers.

“However, we ask that you only use our services if you need to: if you can afford to buy food but can't get to the shops there are delivery services and volunteers available to support you: visit the Llangollen Coronavirus Help Page and see the Coronavirus Newsletter for phone numbers.

“Please message or phone us in advance before 2pm on our opening days if you would like to collect a food parcel during our opening times for yourself or someone in need.  Let us know how many adults and children it is for, and how long it needs to last.

“Social distancing applies when collecting from Pengwern Community Centre.

“If you are unable to collect, and no-one can collect for you, volunteers can deliver to your home.  Please phone or message us before 2pm on our opening days for delivery that day. 

"Calls and messages after that will not be delivered until our next opening day.  Delivery volunteers will drop your parcel outside your door, knock or ring the bell, and step away a few metres.

“Please help us to support you safely and effectively by following the above guidance. Best wishes to our phenomenal Llangollen Family, we are proud to support you through these tough times.”

Dee Valley Produce said in a Facebook message yesterday: “Had a very busy day we are all still here prepping orders for tomorrow, so we won’t be responding to anymore messages on Facebook until tomorrow evening sorry.

“Orders placed after today will likely not go out until Monday/Tuesday.

“I want to thank all the volunteers for helping us get orders together and sent out but I’d like to thank Rhian the most who has come in and worked 12 hours plus with me most of last week and this week including coming in on her day off! Not all super heroes wear cloaks. #employeeofthecentury.”

Denbighshire County Council has put out an urgent call for people wishing to offer their time to volunteer during the current pandemic to get in touch.

The council says it has been heartened by the voluntary action and community spirit being shown throughout the county, and is already seeing online groups forming on Facebook in addition to existing local volunteer groups and third sector organisations.

Now the council is working with Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council to co-ordinate requests.

People who are fit and healthy and wish to volunteer are encouraged to register at www.dvsc.co.uk, via e-mail: covid19@dvsc.co.uk, or call Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council direct on 01824 702441.

Third Sector and voluntary organisations are also encouraged to register at www.dvsc.co.uk, email covid19@dvsc.co.uk through the same contact details.  DVSC can link you with volunteers to help deliver the support you’re offering.

Visiting at all North Wales hospitals has been suspended to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Visiting patients who are not infected with COVID-19 will only be permitted in the following circumstances:

• One parent or guardian for paediatric (Children’s Ward) inpatients and neonatal wards;

• One visitor at a time for an agreed amount of time to patients receiving end of life care. Permission from the ward sister or charge nurse must be obtained in advance

• One birthing partner from the same household to support a woman in labour will be permitted

See full restrictions here: https://bcuhb.nhs.wales/news/health-board-news/visiting-suspended-across-all-north-wales-hospitals/

The Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board sentout a message to potential volunteers, which says: “If you are interested in volunteering with us, please email to BCUHB.PublicVolunteers@wales.nhs.uk.

“Please include your full name, telephone number, e-mail address and the nearest hospital to you along with a brief description of skills and experience.”

The Canal and River Trust posted about the use of the Llangollen Canal and other inland waterways during the coronavirus crisis. This says:

Llangollen Practice said yesterday on its Facebook page: “We are getting lots of queries from patients regarding whether they will be receiving a ‘shielding’ letter as announced by the government. These letters are coming direct from NHS Wales and not from the practice and are being sent to patients who fall into very specific categories. You can find out more information by following this link: https://phw.nhs.wales/topics/latest-information-on-novel-coronavirus-covid-19/how-to-protect-extremely-vulnerable-people-shielding/

MP welcomes support package for self-employed

Tonight’s announcement by the Chancellor of the Exchequer of a comprehensive support package for self-employed workers has been welcomed by Clwyd South MP Simon Baynes.

The support includes the following:

• The Government will pay 80% of self-employed workers income calculated on their income from their tax returns over the last 3 years up to the value of £2,500. You will still be able to work during this time if you so choose.
• This will only be available for genuinely self-employed people who earn up to £50,000 a year.
• HMRC will contact self-employed individuals notifying them of the scheme, where they will be asked to complete an online form to access this cash
• Self-employed people will also be entitled to claim business support loans
• For those who missed their tax return deadline, will have an additional 4 weeks to submit this.
• Also, those who are self-employed will be able to claim Universal Credit, which will be paid out as quickly as possible to ensure you can access enough funding to tide people over until the scheme is fully in place.

Simon Baynes said: “So many residents have been in touch with me over the last few days concerned about loss of income. Today's announcement was clear – the Government will support everyone through this crisis. I’m so glad to hear that self-employed workers will be benefiting from Government support too, so that we can all get through this crisis together.

“For anyone who has queries or concerns about tonight’s announcement or if there’s anything else I can help with, please do get in touch with me at simon.baynes.mp@parliament.uk.”