Death toll in Wales rises to 117 as COVID-19 claims 19 more lives
The number of people to die after testing positive for COVID-19 in Wales has risen to 117.
284 more people have also tested positive for the virus, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Wales to 2,121.
Health officials warn the true number of cases across the country is likely to be higher.
Dr Robin Howe, Incident Director of the outbreak response at Public Health Wales, said: “284 new cases have tested positive for Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Wales, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 2,121, although the true number of cases is likely to be higher.
“19 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 117.
“We offer our condolences to families and friends affected, and we ask those reporting on the situation to respect patient confidentiality."
Dr Howe thanked the public for doing their part to slow the spread of the virus by staying at home except for essential reasons.
He said: “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.
“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.
“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 - 02/04/20
Aneurin Bevan - 766
Betsi Cadwaladr - 117
Cardiff and Vale - 528
Cwm Taf - 242
Hywel Dda - 134
Powys - 34
Swansea Bay - 248
Resident outside Wales - 17
To be confirmed - 35
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday morning, Chief Executive of NHS Wales Dr Andrew Goodall said there are currently 573 patients with COVID-19 in Welsh hospitals.
He said the greatest pressure was being felt in the area of south east Wales, and admitted the pressure on the health and care sector is expected to be "significant".
Watch the full press conference here