First Minister Mark Drakeford tests positive for Covid
(Picture: PA Wire)Mark Drakeford has tested positive for coronavirus and is now self-isolating, the Welsh Government has said.
Mr Drakeford, 67, had taken a PCR test earlier in the week which came back positive on Friday.
A spokesman for the Welsh Government said: “The First Minister of Wales has tested positive for Coronavirus after taking a PCR test. He is self-isolating and working remotely.”
Economy minister Vaughan Gething will now take Friday’s press conference in place of the First Minister.
In 2020, Mr Drakeford revealed he had moved out of his home during the lockdown as family members have serious health conditions.
He said at the time: “I spend my time with other people, so I’m quite a danger to people who oughtn’t to be doing that.
“I work most of the time, so balancing the demands of people you’re close to and knowing what they are going through as well as everything you have to do here - you know, those are tough days.”
Under current guidelines in Wales, like England, anyone self-isolating after testing positive or showing symptoms of Covid may leave isolation if they test negative on days five and six.
While Covid restrictions are set to be lifted in England from February 24, Wales remains in Alert Level 0.
Under the Alert Level 0, working from home is still advised while Covid passes are required for large indoor events such as nightclubs, cinemas and theatres.
Face coverings are still required on public transport and in most indoor public places.
A review of the restrictions took place this week with Mr Drakeford claiming last month if trends continue, rules around face masks and Covid passes would be up for review.
According to figures released on February 9, 1,388 new cases and 17 new deaths were reported.
