Guilford County Detects Its First Case Of UK Variant Of COVID-19

Days after North Carolina identified its first confirmed case of a new coronavirus variant in Mecklenburg County, a new case has been detected in Guilford County. The unidentified patient is currently in isolation.

The variant, known as B.1.1.7, was first seen in the United Kingdom, but it has since been detected in at least 21 states. Though it is thought to be more transmissible, current vaccines are expected to be effective against it.

"Due to the B.1.1.7 variant being highly transmissible, we are currently conducting contact tracing and will continue to heavily monitor this case," said Dr. Iulia Vann, Guilford County public health director. "We are prepared to address future cases that contain variant strains with the same level of detail. It continues to be important for the community to follow the 3 Ws: Wear a face covering, Wash your hands, and Wait 6 feet apart."

After the first case of the UK variant was found in North Carolina, experts with the state's Department of Health and Human Services said it was concerning but not surprising the new strain was in the region.

"While expected, identification of this COVID-19 variant in North Carolina is concerning, especially at the same time as we are already seeing very high numbers of cases," said NCDHHS Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen.

On Wednesday, Gov. Roy Cooper extended Modified Stay at Home order and statewide curfew through the end of February as a continued measure to reduce spread of the virus.

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