Public Health Wales statement on Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
This statement will be updated daily at 2pm
Statement: Wednesday 9 December 2020 Dr Robin Howe Incident Director for the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak response
at Public Health Wales, said: "From 10 December, Coronavirus regulations
relating to self-isolation periods will change in Wales. "Under the revised regulations, people who
have tested positive or have come in to close contact with someone who has had
a positive test for Coronavirus will be required by law to self-isolate for 10
days. Previously, close contacts were required to self-isolate for 14
days. "This change has been made to reflect the
latest evidence around transmission of the virus. "These regulations will apply
retrospectively, so anyone on days 11-14 of self-isolation will be immediately
released. This applies to all settings, so will mean that school bubbles can
return. "This new 10 day requirement also applies to
people who are isolating after travelling from a non-exempt country.” “Yesterday,
we welcomed the news that the first Coronavirus vaccine rollout had begun. We stress that the effects of this vaccine
may not be seen nationally for many months and it is therefore extremely important
that everyone continues to follow the advice on keeping Wales safe; keep
contacts with other people to a minimum, keep a 2 metre distance from others,
wash hands regularly, wear a face covering where required, and self-isolating
when asked to do so. “Coronavirus cases are rising in many parts of Wales,
reversing the downward trend we had observed as a result of the fire break. “If we are to have
meaningful and safe interactions within the permitted exclusive Christmas
‘bubble’, then everyone should immediately start to limit their interactions
with others as much as possible in the lead up to the festive period. “This means staying
out of other people’s homes, limiting the times and the numbers of people that
you meet, maintaining social distancing and hand hygiene, working from home if
you can, and self-isolating if you show symptoms of coronavirus or are asked to
do so by contact tracers. “Public Health Wales
urges everyone to follow the rules, to avoid transmission of Coronavirus and to
protect everyone in our communities, including the most vulnerable. “The festive period is
important for people across Wales who want to be with loved ones during the
holidays, particularly after a very difficult year, but we would remind
everyone that we must each continue to take
personal responsibility to limit the spread of the virus and protect our loved
ones, particularly if they are vulnerable or extremely vulnerable. For
many, this will mean that it isn’t possible to celebrate Christmas in the way
you normally would. “The rising rate of Coronavirus in parts of
Rhondda Cynon Taff is causing significant
concern and a mass testing exercise in the Lower Cynon Valley area
started on Saturday and will run until 20 December. “Public Health Wales is encouraging everyone
who lives, studies or works in the area (Abercynon, Penrhiwceiber, Mountain Ash
West, Mountain Ash East, and Aberaman South) to attend either the Cynon Valley
Bowls Club or Abercynon Leisure Centre between 9am and 7pm for a free test. “Anyone aged 11+ without any symptoms can
have a test, but children under 18 will need parental consent. The more people
who get tested, the more chances we have to reduce the spread of the virus. “We understand that
people will want to do their Christmas shopping at this time of year. We would
suggest to try to visit shops during off-peak times, to always maintain social
distancing and to wear a face covering if you can. Options such as ‘click and
collect’ or online purchasing may also be something to consider. “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 testeither by calling 119 or by clicking here. “We recognise that
many people may be finding life more challenging, resulting in difficulties
with mental health. There are many agencies which provide help and support,
including the C.A.L.L. helpline on 0800 132 737, which will refer callers to
the most appropriate organisation according to their needs. “If you are in severe
mental distress or are having suicidal thoughts, please contact Samaritans
Cymru free on 116 123. You can also find sources of advice and guidance on our website if you need some help
or are worried about a loved one. “NHS Wales is still
here to help you if you need care, and it’s important you continue to attend
appointments and seek help for urgent medical issues. You should phone
beforehand and follow any guidance your local surgery, dentist, optometrist or
health service has put in place to protect you and staff, including the need to
keep 2m away from other patients. “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 Mercher 9 Rhagfyr 2020 I ddilyn