HUNDREDS of new coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Flintshire and Wrexham, the latest data shows. 

Public Health Wales figures released on Saturday (January 2) show that there have been 499 cases in the last two days. 

Of these, 268 were in Wrexham and 231 in Flintshire.

Wrexham's seven-day cases rate per 100,000 population has jumped to over 580 and is now in line with rates seen in much of south Wales. 

Across north Wales as a whole, 691 new cases have been confirmed in the last two days. 

Dr Chris Williams, incident director for the Novel Coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak response at Public Health Wales, said:

“We wish everyone a Happy New Year, and hope that 2021 will be a better year for us all. With vaccinations for Covid-19 progressing, we welcome the announcement by the Welsh Government of the roll-out of the second coronavirus vaccine (from Oxford/AstraZeneca) in Wales.

“Vaccinating the adult population of Wales, to protect people from severe disease, is a significant task, and the vaccine will take time to reach everyone.

“Please do not to phone your GP, pharmacy or hospital asking when you will get a vaccine.  When someone is in one of the groups eligible for the vaccine, they will be invited to attend a dedicated clinic which will have been set up to ensure patient safety and that of the healthcare professionals.

“The effects of the vaccines may not be seen nationally for some time, and with Wales at alert level four we must continue to follow the advice on keeping Wales safe.  Stay at home, meet only the people you live with, maintain social distancing, wash your hands regularly, and work from home if you can."