New York has its first confirmed case of novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Sunday.
The woman, who is in her 30s, contracted the virus while in Iran, Cuomo said. She's currently isolated in her home. She is not in serious condition, but does have respiratory symptoms.
"The positive test was confirmed by New York's Wadsworth Lab in Albany, underscoring the importance of the ability for our state to ensure efficient and rapid turnaround, and is exactly why I advocated for the approval from Vice President Pence that New York was granted just yesterday ," Cuomo said. "There is no cause for surprise -- this was expected. As I said from the beginning, it was a matter of when, not if there would be a positive case of novel coronavirus in New York."
Gov. Cuomo said the general risk remains low in New York.
"We are diligently managing this situation and will continue to provide information as it becomes available," he said.
For those who feel sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, and traveled to areas experiencing coronavirus outbreaks or came into contact with someone with COVID-19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends:
- Seek medical care right away. Before going to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about recent travel and symptoms.
- Avoid contact with others.
- Do not travel while sick.
- Cover mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- For more information about the coronavirus, visit the CDC website.
This story was originally published by Aliza Chasan WPIX.