A warning has been issued by Ceredigion County Council that coronavirus rates are "increasing significantly" across the county.

As pupils return to school on Friday, September 3, the Council urged residents to keep to good practice to ensure their safe return to school.

The current levels show the number of cases per 100,000 of the population across the county at its highest level so far at 337.

Certain areas of the county are even higher, including Aberystwyth South at 522.9/100,000; Cardigan and Aberporth at 439.3/100,000; Beulah, Troedyarur, and Llandysul at 351.8/100,000; and Aberystwyth North at 350.9/100,000.

"All areas in Ceredigion are above 230 per 100,000, which shows that the virus is spreading very quickly within the community," said the statement.

"We are expecting the number of cases to increase further over the coming days and weeks.

"In addition, the percentage of those being tested testing positive have increased to 16.6%, which is a significant concern."

The data shows that the majority of these cases are in those aged 25 and under, which for Ceredigion currently stands at 555.5/100,000 of the population and increasing.

"We are also seeing a number of cases in children under 10," added the Council statement.

"Those who are 16 years old and over are now being invited for the vaccine and we urge young people to take up the offer to keep themselves and their families safe from the impact of COVID-19."

It adds: "It is clear that the pandemic is far from over, but by following good practice such as wearing a mask in busy places, including shops and public transport, maintaining good hand hygiene and maintaining social distancing as well as taking up the offer of both doses of the vaccine - we can reduce the worst effect of COVID-19 in Ceredigion.

"You must self-isolate immediately for 10 days at the first sign of any COVID-19 symptoms which are a high temperature, a new continuous cough and a loss or change to sense of smell or taste.

"You can book a PCR test via www.gov.wales/get-tested-coronavirus-covid-19 or by calling 119."