14 more deaths as number to die after testing positive for coronavirus in Wales rises to 62
14 more people have died after testing positive for coronavirus in Wales, bringing the total number to lose their lives to 62.
An additional 210 cases of the virus have also been confirmed across the country, bringing the total number of cases across in Wales to 1,451.
Public Health Wales says the true number of cases is likely to be higher.
Dr Giri Shankar from Public Health Wales, said: “We offer our condolences to families and friends affected, and we ask those reporting on the situation to respect patient confidentiality.
“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.
“We know that staying at home can be hard, and we want to thank each and every person across Wales for doing their bit to help slow the spread of the virus.”
Dr Giri Shankar also issued a reminder for people to follow to the rules of the lockdown in order to slow the spread of the virus.
He said: “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.”
A regional breakdown of the confirmed cases shows the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board has 565 confirmed cases, the highest number of any health board in Wales.
Cardiff and Vale has 344 confirmed cases, while Cwm Taf has 158.
At a press conference in Cardiff on Monday, First Minister Mark Drakeford was asked why the Aneurin Bevan health board had become a "hot spot" for the virus.
Mr Drakeford said there was a "degree of randomness" behind the number of cases, but also said a member of staff at the health board was infected with the virus "very early" on.
He said testing at the health board was therefore carried out "more vigorously" and "more widely".
Mr Drakeford said there is also some evidence to suggest the virus is moving "east to west across the United Kingdom."