HEALTH chiefs in Ceredigion believe we are approaching the peak of the delta variant of coronavirus as infection rates remain high among the under 25s.

Ceredigion County Council has issued an update on the Covid-19 picture in the county today with the rate of infection remaining high, currently standing at 376.9 cases per 100,000 population.

In the update, council chiefs said: “The last 18 months have been difficult and challenging for us all, especially for all those who have lost a loved one and for those who are suffering from long-Covid.

“Autumn and winter will continue to be challenging for us all as we enter the flu season. We need to work together to keep ourselves safe and well and to support our health and care services.

“The pandemic is still with us and we are approaching what we believe to be the peak of the delta wave in Wales.

“Cases continue to be high in Ceredigion with current rates at 376.9 /100,000 of the population.

“Cases amongst under 25s remain particularly high, which currently stands at 634.9/100,000 of the population and remains our biggest concern.

“We are currently also seeing high numbers in the Rheidol, Ystwyth and Caron area (623.6 /100,000 of the population) and the Aberaeron and Llanrhystud area (591.8 /100,000 of the population).”

As we move through the autumn and winter there are key defence measures still in place.

We must all make the right choices to keep us safe:

• A continued focus on vaccination as our most effective defence against harm. This includes 12-15 year olds, those eligible for the booster vaccine and those who are yet to receive their first or second dose. We are also encouraging as many people as possible to take up the opportunity of a flu vaccine.

• Self-isolate at the first sign of any symptoms and following a positive test result.

• Businesses must carry out a Covid risk assessment and put in place reasonable measures to minimise risks.

• Wear face coverings in indoor public places.

• Limit social contact if cases are high in your area.

• Work from home where possible.

• Wash hands regularly.

• Meet people outside rather than inside where possible.

• Keep indoor spaces well ventilated.

• Keeping a social distance from other people.

• Use the NHS COVID Pass to gain entry to certain events and venues.

Further information regarding how and where you can access the COVID-19 vaccine as well as the flu vaccine can be found at:

Welsh Government’s Coronavirus Control Plan: autumn and winter 2021 can be found at: https://gov.wales/sites/default/files/publications/2021-10/coronavirus-control-plan-autumn-and-winter-2021-update.pdf