Six more people in Powys have contracted coronavirus, new data released today reveals.

The latest cases bring the total to 109, although once again the true figure is likely to be far higher because of the low level of testing and the number of cases that have taken place in England without revealing links to Powys.

Across Wales another 244 reports have taken the overall total to 6,645, while 11 more people have died to take the overall total to 506 people in Wales.

The number of people to have died after contracting coronavirus in Powys continues to remain under wraps, because health authorities say the numbers are small enough to risk publicising the identities of the victims.

Dr Giri Shankar, incident director for the Novel Coronavirus outbreak response at Public Health Wales, said: “The First Minister yesterday confirmed the extension of lockdown measures, which will remain in place for a further three weeks.

“Public Health Wales fully supports this decision, which is essential to avoid reversing the gains we have made in slowing the spread of this virus, protecting our NHS, and saving lives.

“Novel Coronavirus is now circulating in every part of Wales, and the single most important action we can all take in fighting the virusis to stay at home. We want to thank each and every person across Wales for doing their bit to help slow the spread of the virus."

He added that despite the lockdown, it remains important that people seek medical attention for non-coronavirus related issues.

“While emphasising the importance of staying at home, we share the concern expressed by NHS Wales Chief Executive Dr Andrew Goodall yesterday that some people may be waiting too long to seek urgent assessment and treatment," Dr Shankar added.

“Public Health Wales is reinforcing the message that urgent and emergency care services for physical and mental health are still open and accessible.

“For parents if your child is unwell and you are concerned you should seek help. If you have urgent dental pain you should still call your dentist. If you have a health complaint that is worrying you and won’t go away you should call your GP practice. If you or a family member are seriously ill or injured you should dial 999 or attend your nearest emergency department."