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Harrisburg, PA – Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine today announced the first confirmed case of the COVID-19 variant, SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7, in Pennsylvania. The confirmed case is in Dauphin County. This variant is the same one discovered for the first time in England in December.
This individual has tested positive after known international exposure. A case investigation and contact tracing were conducted to identify, notify and monitor anyone in close contact with that person. The individual was exhibiting mild symptoms, which have since been resolved as they completed their isolation at home.
Pennsylvania has prepared for this variant by working closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and has sent 10-35 random samples every two weeks to the CDC since November to study the sequencing and detect any cases. potential for this new COVID. 19 variant, ”Dr. Levine said. “Public health experts are in the early stages of working to better understand this new variant, how it spreads and how it affects people who are infected with it.
“There is still a lot to learn about this new variant, so we must remain vigilant and continue to urge Pennsylvanians to stop the spread by washing their hands, practicing social distancing, avoiding gatherings, downloading COVID Alert PA and answering the call. Stay calm, stay alert, and stay safe. “
The COVID-19 virus, also known as SARS-CoV-2, mutates regularly because viral mutation is common. According to the CDC, this new variant was recognized in the UK in mid-December 2020. As public health experts continue to study this new variant, they expect all diagnostic tests currently available detect the variant as COVID-19 and that the COVID-19 vaccines with federal emergency use authorizations will also remain effective against this variant.
The Wolf administration highlights the role Pennsylvanians play in helping reduce the spread of COVID-19:
- Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use a hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Cover any coughs or sneezes with your elbow, not your hands.
- Clean surfaces frequently.
- Stay home to avoid spreading COVID-19, especially if you are not feeling well.
- If you have to go out, you should wear a mask in a business or where it is difficult to maintain a good social distance.
- Download the COVID Alert PA app and bring your phone into combat. The free app can be found in the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store by searching for “covid alert pa”.
Updated Coronavirus Links: Press Releases, State Lab Photos, Charts
MEDIA CONTACT: April Hutcheson, 717-787-1783 or [email protected]
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