Three more people from Powys have tested positive for coronavirus, figures released by Public Health Wales confirmed today.

The number of confirmed cases in the county is now 295.

The true number is still likely to be higher, as will the number of deaths related to the virus, which currently stands at 13 in Powys. Office for National Statistics figures show that number may actually be 86.

A total of 2,529 tests have been carried out in the county, and 11.7 per cent have recorded a positive result.

Across Wales, 42 new cases were confirmed today (June 9), taking the running total for the country to 14,480.

Dr Giri Shankar, incident director for the Novel Coronavirus outbreak response at Public Health Wales, said: “Public Health Wales welcomes Welsh Government’s announcement that they are following updated advice from the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommending people in Wales wear three-layer face coverings in situations where social distancing is not possible.

“The evidence remains clear that maintaining a two-metre distance and good hand hygiene is the most effective way to protect yourself and others from contracting Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), but the updated guidance from the WHO says three-layer face coverings could help provide some control of the virus in specific circumstances.

“The wearing of face coverings is not mandatory, but we encourage people to do this for the benefit of themselves and others.

“This updated advice only applies to people who are not showing symptoms of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). People who are symptomatic must self-isolate for seven days and get a test, as set out in existing guidance. Unless the test shows a negative result, they must not go out during this time, even with a face covering or mask.

Dr Shankar added: “Any international traveller entering the UK will need to quarantine for the first 14 days upon arrival (known as ‘self-isolating’). This is because it can take up to 14 days for Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms to appear.

“Before their arrival, international travellers must provide contact details, including the address where they will self-isolate. Public Health Wales will write registered letters to these identified individuals. If the letters are returned, one phone call will be made.

“Public Health Wales requests international travellers cooperate in providing accurate contact details and follow the 14 day self-isolating advice"