HEALTH officials are urging people in Gwynedd to maintain social distance following a spike in cases.

21 new cases of Covid-19 were recorded in the county today (Sunday) taking the weekly total to 59.

Dr Giri Shankar Incident Director for the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak response at Public Health Wales, said: “We are now also seeing an increase in cases in Gwynedd and for that reason we to urge people to continue to follow the public health guidance: self-isolate when asked to do so, stay two metres away from others, and wash your hands regularly. These actions are essential in reducing spread of the virus, protecting older and vulnerable people, and keeping Wales safe.”

Ceredigion recorded one new case today, Carmarthenshire, four, two in Powys and no new cases in Pembrokeshire.

With an increase in cases across Gwynedd, council leaders are also urging people to follow the rules or the county will face a local lockdown. 

Dilwyn Williams, Gwynedd Council Chief Executive said: “The vast majority of residents have responded positively and responsibly to all Coronavirus guidelines. By doing so, they are playing their part in keeping their friends and families safe and their communities out of lockdown.

“Sadly however, there is growing evidence that others are not playing their part. With cases on the rise we are urging all Gwynedd residents to do the right thing.

“If people do not follow the rules, stricter regulations and a local lockdown will become inevitable sooner rather than later.

“We want to avoid this at all costs, which is why we’re appealing to people to keep to the guidance, to respect and look after each other and to be more careful than ever.

“Earlier this year we all made great sacrifices to stop the spread of Covid-19 and protect our families, friends, and the most vulnerable in our communities. I know that we all want to return to life as we once knew it, but it is vital that we don’t undo all of the hard work we’ve achieved.

“We are therefore urging the people of Gwynedd to do the right thing if we are to avoid having to seriously consider the need for local restrictions.”

432 new cases of coronavirus have been recorded across Wales today (Sunday) with 8,966 tests being conducted.

No new deaths have been recorded today, leaving Wales’ total at 1,630.