The more contagious Covid-19 variant, known as P.1, hit New York, according to Governor Andrew Cuomo. The patient affected is a Brooklyn resident in their 90s with no travel history.
It was a team of scientists at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York who identified the presence of the variant – which was first discovered in Japan among four Brazilian travelers. The hospital’s findings were subsequently validated by the Wadsworth Center Laboratories of the Department of Health.
“The detection of the Brazilian variant here in New York further emphasizes the importance of taking all necessary steps to continue to protect your health,” Governor Cuomo said in a statement. ‘While it’s normal for a virus to mutate, the best way to protect yourself is by wearing a well-fitting mask, avoiding large crowds, social distance, washing your hands and being vaccinated when it’s your turn. ‘
While the Brazil Covid strain was first discovered in the United States by the end of January, the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention subsequently reported a total of 48 cases across the country.
Although more than five million New Yorkers have received the Covid-19 vaccine, news of P.1’s arrival in the state is coming, with daily cases of coronavirus increasing, as was the case recently in 20 other states.