The first case of the new Omicron Coronavirus variant has been confirmed in Wales.

Linked to international travel, the Covid-19 case was located in Cardiff and the Vale.

A Welsh Government spokesperson said: "We are prepared to respond rapidly to emerging variants of concern, and intensive investigations and robust public health action are being taken to slow any spread.

"The health impact of the Omicron variant is still being assessed. Currently there is no substantial evidence to suggest the Omicron variant will lead to a more severe form of illness but the data is being kept under constant review.

"As we better understand this variant we will be able to determine the next steps. In the meantime, sticking to the rules, following the steps which keep us safe and taking up the offer of a vaccine continue to be the best way to protect ourselves and the NHS."

Welsh Health Minister Eluned Morgan said earlier this week that it was "only a matter of time" before the variant reached Wales.

Ms Morgan, who described the variant as "worrying" announced on Tuesday that Wales would bring in the same new rules around self-isolation that were announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson for England last weekend.

She said: "We will change our self-isolation rules so everyone identified as a close contact of a confirmed or a probable omicron case in Wales will need to isolate for 10 days, regardless of their vaccination status or age."

The new rules apply to people of all ages including children aged under five-years-old.

While it was initially identified in South Africa at the end of last month, cases have since been confirmed in both Scotland and England.

The Welsh case was detected because of surveillance of returning travellers, particularly from Southern Africa, Public Health Wales has confirmed.

Dr Meng Khaw, National Director for Health Protection and Screening Services for Public Health Wales, said: “The number of mutations in the Omicron variant is concerning, but new variants are anticipated.

"We keep variants under constant review, and we work with UK partners to identify, detect and monitor new and known variants. The Delta variant continues to be the dominant strain in Wales.

“The single best thing you can do to protect yourself, your community and the NHS against new variants of coronavirus is to take up the offer of a vaccine.

“You can also protect yourself and others by maintaining a social distance where possible, washing hands regularly, keeping homes well-ventilated, and working from home if you can. Use a Covid Pass and a face covering where required.”