FIVE new confirmed cases of coronavirus have been reported in North Wales, health chiefs have said today.

Public Health Wales announced today (Monday, August 17) that 14 new cases of the virus have been reported across Wales.

Of the 14 new cases reported in the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board area, there were three in Wrexham, and one each in Flintshire and Gwynedd.

No new cases were reported in Conwy, Denbighshire, or on Anglesey.

There were no deaths of patients that had tested positive for coronavirus recorded in the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board area or the rest of Wales.

Due to the reduction of new cases in Wales, the advice for people to shield has been paused.

In addition, guidance to only use public transport if it is essential has been lifted.

Dr Christopher Williams, Incident Director for the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak response at Public Health Wales, said: “The Chief Medical Officer for Wales has paused his advice to shield as the prevalence rate of the coronavirus in our communities has reduced. This means that, as of Sunday 16 August, people no longer need to shield.

“Following confirmation by the Welsh Government that the essential travel restriction on public transport has been lifted starting today, we are reminding people of the need to act responsibly when using public transport.

“This includes planning journeys to avoid busy periods if possible, washing or sanitising hands at the start and end of each trip, and wearing face coverings.

“From 22 August, providing conditions remain stable, up to four households will be able to join together to form a single extended household, and a meal following a wedding, civil partnership or funeral will be allowed for up to 30 people indoors providing social distancing can be maintained.

“We welcome the amendments to regulations making it obligatory for hospitality businesses and other settings to collect contact details of customers from next week. This information is essential for Wales’ Test, Trace, Protect strategy for testing the general public and preventing the spread of coronavirus.