33 more coronavirus deaths in Wales as further 284 test positive

33 more people in Wales have died after contracting coronavirus bringing the total number of deaths to 245.

The total number of people who have tested positive for the virus now stands at 4,073. Public Health Wales said the true number is likely to be higher.

It comes after Wales' first coronavirus testing centre was opened at Cardiff City Stadium.

Dr Robin Howe, Incident Director for 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 4,073, although the true number of cases is likely to be higher.

“33 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 245.

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

Testing centres have been opened across the UK for critical workers. Credit: PA Images

More than 15,000 tests have been conducted on more than 13,000 people since the start of the outbreak, according to Public Health Wales.

Dr Giri Shankar added: "We want to thank each and every person across Wales for doing their bit to help slow the spread of the virus.

“We know that staying at home can be hard especially when the weather is nice, but 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."

Number of confirmed cases by local health board area - 08/04/20

  • Aneurin Bevan - 1,211

  • Betsi Cadwaladr - 277

  • Cardiff & Vale - 1,013

  • Cwm Taf Morgannwg - 618

  • Hywel Dda - 283

  • Powys - 62

  • Swansea Bay - 534

  • Resident outside Wales - 29

  • To be confirmed - 46

Laybys across tourist spots in Wales have been closed as the UK continues in lockdown. Credit: PA Images

The First Minister announced in the first digital meeting of the Welsh Assembly that the three weeks of stay-at-home restrictions will not end next week.

Housing Minister Julie James AM told the daily briefing on Wednesday that the lockdown would "definitely be extended" beyond the Easter bank holiday weekend.

Mark Drakeford said: "I must be plain with all Members, these restrictions will not end then.

We will not throw away the gains we have made, and the lives we can save, by abandoning our efforts, just as they begin to bear fruit."

Coronavirus: Everything you need to know