First Coronavirus Case Confirmed in Wales

The first case of coronavirus in Wales has been confirmed by Public Health Wales.

This confirmation means that 17 people in the UK have tested positive for the virus since the outbreak began in December, originating from China.

It has been confirmed that the case is a person from Swansea.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Frank Atherton said one patient had travelled back to Wales from northern Italy, where the virus was contracted.

On Thursday, Northern Ireland confirmed their first case of coronavirus, whilst England has two new cases added to their tally.

Experts are warning of school closures alongside the cancellation of major sporting events, concerts and festivals across the UK, in an attempt to prevent the virus from spreading and causing Covid-19.

Dr Atherton said: “All appropriate measures to provide care for the individual and to reduce the risk of transmission to others are being taken.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to assure the public that Wales and the whole of the UK is well prepared for these types of incidents.”