First case of South African coronavirus variant found in North Carolina :: WRAL.com

By Sydney Franklin, WRAL Multiplatform Producer

The first case of the South African variant of the coronavirus was found in North Carolina, according to the State Department of Health and Human Services.

DHHS officials said the case was found in a sample from an adult in the central part of the state who had not traveled. In order to protect the privacy of the individual, no other information will be disclosed.

The B.1.351 variant was first released in South Africa in October. North Carolina joins South Carolina, Maryland and Virginia in reporting cases of the variant.

As of February 9, nine cases have been found in the United States.

Health officials have warned that data shows the variant is more contagious, but does not cause more serious illness.

DHHS is updating its recommendations for mask wearing based on updated guidance from the Center for Disease Control:

• Make sure the mask fits snugly on the face and covers the nose and mouth.
• Use two or more layers for your face.
• Do not wear two disposable masks.
• Make sure you can see and breathe easily.

Last week, South Africa suspended plans to give doses of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine to healthcare workers after data from a small clinical trial suggested it was not as effective for prevent mild to moderate disease of the variant.

AstraZeneca said Thursday that an updated version of the vaccine should be ready by fall.