Ceredigion is now in a third wave of coronavirus cases according to health chiefs with over 50 new cases reported this week – which officials expect to increase in the coming days.

Particular worries have been raised over the increase in cases in the Borth and Bontgoch area which also covers the Bow Street and Talybont areas.

The latest figures show that over the last seven days, there have been 54 new cases which takes the county to 81.2 per 100,000 population (as at 11 July).

This compares to a level of 9.6 per 100,000 four weeks ago and the highest case rate in Ceredigion since the end of January.

Council chiefs say they are expecting the number of cases to increase further of the coming days and this means we are now in the third wave in Ceredigion.

A Ceredigion County Council spokesperson said: “We are especially concerned about the level of increase in the north of the county in the Borth and Bontgoch area, which has now reached 215.1 per 100,000 population and the Aberystwyth North area is now at 169.8 per 100,000 population, with other areas across the county seeing an increase in cases (7 days from 1 and 7 July).

“The increase is having an impact on cases in the county’s schools with a number of pupils having to self-isolate.

“Our Track and Trace team are able to see that many of the individuals infected have high rates of contact groups.

“We are urging those who know that they have been in contact with an individual who is infected to self-isolate immediately and to get tested.

“If you are contacted by a Ceredigion County Council Track and Trace officer, be honest about where you have been and the people you’ve met.

“Our Track and Trace officers will not judge you. This will help stop the spread of the virus and save lives.”

People are being urged to follow the regulations such as keeping social distance, washing their hands regularly, limiting social contact and wearing masks in indoor spaces.

People are also being asked to be aware of Covid-19 symptoms. They include a high temperature, a new continuous cough and a loss or change to sense of smell or taste. But there are also other symptoms early on, such as headaches, tiredness and general aches and pains usually associated with flu.

"We are urging people who feel unwell to be extra cautious, especially to practice hand hygiene and distancing, and if in doubt, please book a test," the council said.

Hywel Dda Health Board has set up walk-in vaccine clinics to enable Ceredigion residents to have their first or second vaccine without having to have an appointment. Residents who have already had their first vaccine must wait eight weeks before they have their second vaccine.

With the rise in cases across the county it is important that as many people come forward for their first and second vaccines as soon as possible. If you would prefer to have an appointment, you can contact Hywel Dda’s booking team on 0300 303 8322 or by emailing [email protected]

For more information, head to www.hduhb.nhs.wales