Raleigh, NC – The first case of the highly contagious COVID-19 variant has been confirmed in North Carolina.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services identified the first case of the variant in an adult in Mecklenburg County.
The COVID variant, dubbed B.1.1.7., Was first discovered in the UK in December.
According to officials, 195 cases of the COVID variant were reported in 21 states on Jan. 22.
“Early data suggests that this variant may be more contagious than other variants,” NCDHHS said in a statement.
Current COVID-19 vaccines are expected to be effective against the new variant, officials say.
“While expected, the identification of this COVID-19 variant in North Carolina is concerning, especially at the same time as we are already seeing a very high number of cases,” said Mandy Cohen, secretary of the NCDHHS.
“It’s more important than ever to practice the 3Ws,” she said.
Wash hands. Wear a mask. Wait 6 feet apart.
State health officials advise people to stay at home, except for essential activities, and to avoid meetings, especially indoors, with people who do not live with you.
If you absolutely must travel or are with people you don’t live with, get tested beforehand, keep it small and outdoors, and always wear a mask.
And of course make an appointment for a vaccine when one becomes available to you.