Gatherings among youngsters sees upsurge in Covid cases

THERE has been a spread of Covid-19 cases in younger people after “social gatherings”, Newport council has warned.

The cases, linked to the Rogerstone and Bassaleg areas of the city, have appeared in the past few days, according to the council.

It has stated that the cases have been linked to increasing social interaction, and specifically affect people aged 16 to 19.

“In the past few days there have been linked Covid cases in young people, specifically in the 16-19 year age group, that live in or have links to the Rogerstone/Bassaleg area,” said a tweet posted by the council on Wednesday.

“Spread has been linked with social gatherings, sharing cars and meeting up, even outdoors, such as in parks.”

A spokesperson for Newport city council also confirmed that the spread of cases has affected other age groups as a result of infected individuals passing it onto other people in their household.

The council is encouraging anyone who believes they might be affected or who develops symptoms to get a test as soon as possible.

The council wards of Rogerstone, and Pye Corner & Graig (which covers Bassaleg) were two of only three areas in Newport that recorded coronavirus cases last week, according to figures published by Public Health Wales on Wednesday.

On Thursday, Newport also recorded 14 new cases of coronavirus.

Discussing the linked cases in his ward, Councillor Chris Evans of Rogerstone said he understands the need for young people to go out and socialise but that he would urge them to be safe if they do so.