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 has identified the first case of the variant in an adult in Mecklenburg County.
The COVID variant, called B.1.1.7., Was first detected in the United Kingdom in December.
According to officials, on January 22, 195 cases of the COVID variant were reported in 21 states.
“Early data suggest that this variant may be more contagious than other variants,” NCDHHS said in a statement.
The current COVID-19 vaccines are expected to be effective against the new variant, according to officials.
“Although expected, the identification of this COVID-19 variant in North Carolina is worrying, especially at the same time as we are already seeing many 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.
Public health officials advise people to stay home except for essential activities and avoid meeting, especially indoors, with people who do not live with you.
If you absolutely must travel or be with people you do not live with, you should be tested beforehand, keep it small and outdoors and always wear a mask.
And of course get an appointment for a vaccine if there is one available for you.