WITH coronavirus cases rising across Ceredigion, Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire, the public is being urged to protect themselves and each other.

As at 26 August, the rolling weekly rate per 100,000 saw an increase in all three counties with Ceredigion at 271, Carmarthenshire to 287 and Pembrokeshire to 396.

The overall rate for the three counties had increased in the last week to 319 per 100,000 - which roughly equates to three cases per 1,000 of the population.

Ceredigion County Council said that the figures for Cardigan were at 304.1 per 100,000, but expected them to be higher after Bank Holiday weekend.

"August Bank Holiday is nearly here and it looks like it’s going to be sunny and warm for the long weekend ahead," said a Council statement.

"Over the last couple of weeks, there has been a dramatic increase in covid cases in Ceredigion, in particular in coastal areas.

"The current levels show the number of cases at 255.9 per 100,000 of the population, with Cardigan at 304.1 per 100,000," revealed a statement.

"New Quay and Penbryn is at 395.6 and Aberystwyth South at 313.8.

"All areas of Ceredigion are above 200 per 100,000 population, which is a concern and it shows that the virus is spreading quickly within the community, in particular amongst those between the ages of 10 and 29 years old.

"The number of cases is expected to increase further over the coming days and our coastal towns will inevitably be busier than normal and places will get crowded. So, if you’re partying at home or going ‘out out’, do the best you can to limit the chance of catching covid."

It adds: "Everyone needs the chance to catch up with friends and family or get some rest and relaxation; all of these situations can involve having a drink or two to unwind and enjoy.

"Covid doesn’t take a break just because you’re having one. Keep yourself, your family, friends and colleagues safe.

Meanwhile the number of tests carried out in Hywel Dda UHB area has also increased for the same period, with results showing an increase in positivity to 17%.

While the most significant increase is amongst the under 30s, there are still positive cases among the over 70s, and the public is urged to remain vigilant.

Ros Jervis, Director of Public Health at Hywel Dda UHB, said: “We are still very much in this pandemic which continues to disrupt our everyday lives.

"I’m proud of how much effort people have put into staying safe since it began. The rise in cases shows that, whilst hospital admissions are not as high as in previous waves, COVID-19 remains a risk to our health and our health service.

“I’m appealing to everyone to continue doing our bit by sticking with the ‘keep safe’ behaviours that have almost become second nature.

"Without your help, we will struggle to contain further spread of coronavirus here in west Wales.

"Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms, including cold and flu-like symptoms, must self-isolate and book a test via the UK portal or by calling 119 as soon as possible.

"You must continue to self-isolate until you receive your test result, which will usually be within 24 hours of the test.

"If your result is negative, you can end your self-isolation, when you feel well enough to do so.

"If your result is positive, you must self-isolate for 10 days from the date your symptoms started."