FOR the third day in a row there have been no new cases of coronavirus recorded in Powys today, according to figures from Public Health Wales on Sunday.

The data shows also that there have been no new deaths from the virus in the county during the last 48 hours. The total number of coronavirus deaths in Powys remains at 14, while the number of people confirmed to have the virus stands at 296.

However, Powys Teaching Health Board has suggested that the Office for National Statistics data is more accurate, and that shows 86 deaths where coronavirus may have been present since the epidemic began.

Dr Giri Shankar, Incident Director for the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) 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 of two metres is not possible or challenging, such as on public transport.

“The evidence remains clear that maintaining a two-metre distance, good hand hygiene and hygiene when coughing and sneezing 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, if worn correctly, could help provide some control of the virus in specific circumstances.

“The WHO recommends a minimum of three layers in a face covering, which should include:

"An inner layer of absorbent material, such as cotton.

"A middle layer of non-woven material, such as polypropylene.

"An outer layer of non-absorbent material, such as polyester or polyester-blend.

“The wearing of face coverings is not mandatory, but Public Health Wales encourages 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."