CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Officials with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services say a new strain of coronavirus has been detected in the state.
Click here to see photo on Twitter.
Health officials say a North Carolina resident tested positive for the COVID-19 variant called B.1.1.7, which was first detected in the United Kingdom back in December.
As of January 22nd the United States reports 195 cases of B.1.1.7 in 21 different states, and data suggest this variant is more contagious than others, according to a news release.
“While expected, identification of this COVID-19 variant in North Carolina is concerning, especially at the same time as we are already seeing very high numbers of cases,” said NCDHHS Secretary Mandy Cohen, MD. “It is more important than ever to practice the 3Ws.”
State health officials advise everyone to stay home, avoid large gatherings, and to not travel unless absolutely necessary.
Officials say North Carolina’s Modified Stay at Home Order is still in effect, and it requires most people to stay home between the hours of 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.
