THE new variant of coronavirus is present in Powys, the health board has confirmed.

At the weekend, the third national lockdown of Wales was brought forward with immediate effect, the Christmas rule relaxations across the UK were significantly tightened, and huge swathes of England were put into restrictive Tier 4 measures.

A mutation of the virus with higher transmission rates was cited as the reason for rising cases.

A spokesman for Powys Teaching Health Board has confirmed that as with most areas of Wales, this new strain has been detected in the county.

He said: “Regarding the new variant announced at the weekend, the variant has been identified all areas of Wales, including Powys.

“This reminds us all of the critical importance of following national guidance for alert level 4 to Keep Wales safe:

- stay at home

- meet only the people you live with

- maintain social distancing

- wash your hands regularly

- work from home if you can

“You should self-isolate if you or anyone in your household has symptoms. If you have symptoms get a test, and our testing centres in North Powys including Newtown and Llanidloes will continue to operate over the Christmas and New Year Period. Tests can be booked online at www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or by ringing 119.

More information about coronavirus testing in Powys is available from the PTHB website at Coronavirus Testing - Powys Teaching Health Board (nhs.wales)

More information about the new variant is available from the PTHB website at FAQs about the new variant of Coronavirus - Powys Teaching Health Board (nhs.wales)