MEMBERS of the public have been asked to avoid visiting Wrexham Maelor Hospital Emergency Department unless it is necessary.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has said that although the number of cases of COVID-19 in North Wales is currently low, over the past couple of weeks there has been an increase in the number of cases in the Wrexham area.

A health board spokesman said: "We ask that people continue to avoid coming into our hospitals with any COVID-19 symptoms and avoid visiting the Wrexham Maelor Hospital Emergency Department unless it is necessary.

"We are now actively encouraging patients, the public and staff to wear face coverings or masks in public areas of all Health Board sites. More information about this will follow in the coming days.

"COVID-19 is highly infectious and it can be challenging to prevent the spread of the virus and although we have taken a range of actions, we appeal to the public for their support as we all have a role to play in preventing the spread of infection.

"We ask that our communities continue to maintain good hand hygiene and observe social distancing guidance."