THERE have been 44 new coronavirus deaths in Wales, the highest daily increase since the pandemic began.

Data released by Public Health Wales on November 4 shows that 88 new cases were reported in North Wales.

These can be broken down to 33 in Wrexham, 21 in Flintshire, nine in Gwynedd, eight in Denbighshire, five in Conwy and two in Anglesey.

Sadly, the Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board reported a further two deaths, bringing the total to 463.

Across Wales, a total of 44 deaths were reported, the highest daily increase since the pandemic began, meaning the total now sits at 1,939.

Eluned Morgan, Minister for mental health and wellbeing told the Welsh Government's coronavirus press briefing in Cardiff: "It is with much regret that I tell you that Public Health Wales will today report a further 44 deaths.

"My thoughts are with those who are suffering, and in particular with their families in mourning at what is a very difficult time already for us."

As of November 4, the total number of cases and cases per 100k can be broken down to:

Anglesey: 804 cases with 1,147.9 per 100k

Conwy: 1,516 cases with 1,293.5 per 100k

Denbighshire: 1,507 cases with 1,574.8 per 100k

Flintshire: 2,248 cases with 1,440.1 per 100k

Gwynedd: 1,190 cases with 995.4 per 100k

Wrexham: 3,022 cases with 2,222.8 per 100k

Nationally, a total number of 1,202 new cases were confirmed bringing the total number of positive cases to 55,658 since recording began.

Dr Robin Howe, Incident Director for the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak response at Public Health Wales, said: “Public Health Wales will work with Welsh Government to monitor the effect of the regulations which will come in at the end of the current fire-break period on 9 November 2020. We support the call for the public to take personal responsibility for their actions and to ensure that we are all doing as much as possible to limit the transmission of Coronavirus.

“As we enter the second and final week of the fire-break, we recognise that many people may be finding life more challenging, resulting in difficulties with mental health. There are many agencies which provide help and support, including the C.A.L.L. helpline on 0800 132 737, which will refer callers to the most appropriate organisation according to their needs.

“If you are in severe mental distress or are having suicidal thoughts, please contact Samaritans Cymru free on 116 123.

“Today Public Health Wales is reporting 44 new deaths from COVID-19. Due to a reporting time lag, some of the deaths included in today’s total are from previous days. The data dashboard is a rapid reporting tool which is subject to ongoing revision and reconciliation.

“We urge the public to stick to the current rules, which are vital to help us regain control of the virus, to protect the NHS, and save lives.

“Although national and local measures have made a difference, further action is needed. Cases continue to rise in Wales, hospital admissions are increasing, including those into critical care, and sadly so are the numbers of people dying from the virus.

“Under the rules, people must stay at home, except for very limited purposes. They must not visit other households or meet other people they do not live with.

“Certain businesses and venues, including bars, restaurants and most shops must close.

“Secondary schools will provide learning online only for the week after half-term, other than for children in years seven and eight. Primary schools and childcare settings will remain open.

“Face coverings continue to be mandatory in the indoor public spaces that remain open, subject to certain exemptions and exceptions, including on public transport and in taxis.

“More information about the new rules is available at the Welsh Government website.

“During the firebreak it is still important to look after your health, and you can you continue to attend appointments and seek help for urgent medical issues.

“Attending a booked NHS flu vaccination appointment and any of Public Health Wales’ screening clinics is a legitimate reason to travel during the firebreak.

“NHS Wales is still here to help you if you need care, and it’s important you continue to attend appointments and seek help for urgent medical issues. You can leave your home to access local health services, including your GP surgery, dentist, optometrist or other health service.

“You should phone beforehand and follow any guidance your local surgery, dentist, optometrist or health service has put in place to protect you and staff, including the need to keep 2m away from other patients.

“It’s especially important to look after our mental health and wellbeing at this time. You can find sources of advice and guidance on our website if you need some help or are worried about a loved one.

“If you or a member of your household develop symptoms of the Coronavirus, such as a cough, fever or change in sense of taste or smell, you must self-isolate immediately and book a free Coronavirus test at www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or by calling 119.

“Helpful advice and support is available via the NHS COVID-19 app. As well as providing alerts if you have been in contact with someone with Coronavirus, the app will also tell you the current risk level in your area.

“Information about the symptoms of Coronavirus is available on the Public Health Wales website, or via the NHS 111 Wales symptom checker.

“For those travelling from overseas, as of 4am on Sunday 1 November, Cyprus and Lithuania have been removed from the Welsh Government’s list of countries from where you may travel to Wales without the need to self isolate. Therefore, travellers returning from those countries will need to self-isolate on their return.