The first case of the South African coronavirus variant 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 of an adult in the central region of the state who had not traveled. In order to protect the person’s privacy, no other information will be disclosed.
Variant B.1.351 sounded for the first time in South Africa in October. North Carolina joins South Carolina, Maryland and Virginia in reporting variant cases.
As of February 9, nine cases have been found in the United States.
Health officials have warned that the data show that the variant is more contagious, but does not cause more serious illnesses.
DHHS is updating its mask recommendations based on the updated guidelines from the Center for Disease Control:
- Make sure the mask fits your face perfectly and covers your nose and mouth.
- Use two or more layers to cover your face.
- Do not use two disposable masks.
- Make sure that you can see and breathe easily.
Last week, South Africa suspended plans to give doses of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine to healthcare professionals after data from a small clinical trial suggested that it was not as effective in preventing mild to moderate illnesses of the variant.
AstraZeneca said on Thursday that an updated version of the vaccine should be ready in the fall.
