THE number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Gwent nears 250 - still more than half of those recorded in the whole of Wales - after a further 28 were reported in the area today.

Those 28 were among 60 new cases confirmed in Wales as a whole, with one further death - the location has not been revealed - bringing the total to 17.

In all, 478 cases have been confirmed, though Dr Giri Shankar, incident director for the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak response at Public Health Wales, continues to stress that the true figure is likely to be higher.orced by Welsh Government.

The new figures were released earlier today, the first on whic hfar tougher restrictions have been in force governing how people are expected to live their lives in the effort to stem the coronavirus tide.

“The public play a very important role in slowing the spread of infection," said Dr Shankar.

"By strictly following the latest measures, you will protect yourself, protect the most vulnerable and help to reduce the pressure on NHS Wales and minimise the impact of the virus."

The Aneurin Bevan University Health Board area has 248 confirmed coronavirus cases, far more than the health board area with the next highest amount - Cardiff and vale, with 96.

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“People no longer need to contact NHS 111 if they think they may have contracted Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). Advice about the virus is available on the Public Health Wales website," said Dr Shankar.

“Symptoms include: a high temperature, where you feel hot to touch on your chest or back; and a new, continuous cough. This means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or three or more coughing episodes in 24 hours. If you usually have a cough, it may be worse than usual.

“Anyone with a suspected coronavirus illness should not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. They should only contact NHS 111 if they feel they cannot cope with their symptoms at home, their condition gets worse, or their symptoms do not get better after seven days.

“Only call 999 if you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, do not call 999 just because you are on-hold to 111. We appreciate that 111 lines are busy, but you will get through after a wait."