Public Health Wales statement on Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
This statement will be updated daily at 2pm
Statement: Monday 19 October 2020
Dr Giri Shankar,
Incident Director for the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak response at
Public Health Wales, said:
“Public Health Wales
supports the announcement by the Welsh Government today of a two-week national
‘fire-break’ to disrupt the transmission of Coronavirus in Wales. These new restrictions will come into effect
at 6pm on Friday 23 October, and will last until the start of Monday 9 November.
“Cases continue to
rise in Wales, hospital admissions are increasing, including those into
critical care, and sadly so are the numbers of people dying from the virus.
“Although national and
local measures have made a difference, further action is now needed. These new rules are vital to regain control
of the virus, to protect the NHS, and save lives.
“Under the rules
announced today, people must stay at home, except for very limited purposes. They must not visit other households or meet
other people they do not live with.
“Certain businesses
and venues, including bars, restaurants and most shops must close.
“Secondary schools
will provide learning online only for the week after half-term, other than for
children in years seven and eight. Primary schools and childcare settings will
remain open.
“Face coverings
continue to be mandatory in the indoor public spaces that remain open, subject
to certain exemptions and exceptions, including on public transport and in
taxis.
"Attending a
pre-booked screening clinic, medical appointment or flu vaccination is a
permitted reason for travel.
“More information
about the new rules is available at the Welsh Government website.
“If you or a member of
your household develop symptoms of the Coronavirus, such as a cough, fever or
change in sense of taste or smell, you must self-isolate immediately and book a
free Coronavirus test at www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or by calling 119.
“Helpful advice and
support is available via the NHS COVID-19 app. As well as providing
alerts if you have been in contact with someone with Coronavirus, the app will
also tell you the current risk level in your area.
“Information about the
symptoms of Coronavirus is available on the Public Health Wales website, or via
the NHS 111 Wales symptom checker.”
Datganiad: Dydd Llun 19 Hydref 2020
I ddilyn