RESIDENTS in Powys are being urged to get tested as the coronavirus Delta variant - previously known as the Indian variant - has been confirmed in the county.

Health chiefs are renewing their call for residents to “get tested” if they have symptoms and participate in vaccination following confirmation of cases of the new Delta variant.

Stuart Bourne, Director of Public Health for Powys Teaching Health Board, said: “Coronavirus continues to be a major threat to public health, and new variants are circulating.

“Cases of the Delta variant have now been confirmed in Powys.

“The Delta variant first appeared in parts of the north of England, including Bedford, Bolton and Blackburn and has spread rapidly since then.

“There is no evidence yet that it is more severe, but it is more transmissible.

“This means that everyone should follow the simple rules of Hands - Face – Space, and everyone who is eligible should complete the full two dose course of vaccination.”

“Throughout June, PCR tests for people with COVID-19 symptoms continue to be available from our testing sites in Brecon, Builth Wells, Machynlleth, Newtown, Welshpool and Ystradgynlais.

“You can also order these tests by post.

“We have also increased the number of locations where you can drop in to collect Lateral Flow Devices for regular tests if you don’t have symptoms.

“These are available for anyone who can work from home, for volunteers, and for unpaid carers. Lateral flow devices can be collected from Brecon, Builth Wells, Crickhowell, Hay-on-Wye, Llandrindod Wells, Llanidloes, Machynlleth, Newtown and Ystradgynlais.

“You can also order lateral flow devices by post.

“And, throughout June we have a rapid walk-in testing centre in Newtown for people who do not have symptoms.

“This is open to everyone. It is located at the Park Street Day Centre in Newtown and is open seven days a week from 10am to 6pm.”

If you have COVID-19 symptoms then you should follow the latest guidance on self-isolation.

People with confirmed COVID-19 are also encouraged to take part in contact tracing to help stop the spread.

More information about testing in Powys is available from pthb.nhs.wales/find/ttp