Office for National Statistics worker in Newport tests positive for coronavirus

An employee working for the Office for National Statistics (ONS) in Newport has tested positive for coronavirus.

A spokesman for the ONS said the Newport office, on Cardiff Road, remains open and "appropriate steps" are being taken to protect the wellbeing of its staff.

Public Health Wales and the Welsh Government confirmed on Tuesday that a further nine people had tested positive for Covid-19, bringing the total to 15.

The ONS spokesman said: "There has been one confirmed case of the Covid-19 virus at the ONS site in Newport and we are taking appropriate steps to protect the wellbeing of all our people.

"The Newport site remains open although we will continue to monitor our operations in the line with official public health and government guidance."

A new total of 373 UK cases was announced as of 9am on Thursday - a rise of 54 from the previous day.

Newport's second case of coronvirus has been confirmed (Peter Bolter)

A Public Health Wales spokesman said: “Public Health Wales has a responsibility to protect patient confidentiality.

"This includes anyone being tested or treated for Novel Coronavirus.

“For this reason we will not share any information on individuals other than that published in our official statements.”