New COVID-19 Variant Detected In Guilford County

Guilford County officials are reporting their first case of a more contagious strain of COVID-19, a variant known as B.1.1.7.

The confirmed positive case was detected Wednesday. No information about the infected person was released except to note that he or she is in isolation.

Federal health officials have said that early data suggest that the variant may be more contagious than other strains of the virus, but that the current COVID-19 vaccines are expected to be effective against it.

Guilford County Public Health Director Dr. Iulia Vann says contact tracing is underway and the case is being closely monitored. She urges residents to wear masks, wash hands and remain six feet apart.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that while the variant may be more easily transmitted, there's no evidence it is more severe or deadly. 

The Guilford announcement comes less than a week after the first case of the variant in North Carolina was detected in a Mecklenburg County case.

North Carolina residents are subject to a government stay at home order requiring them to stay at home between the hours of 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. Businesses including restaurants, bars, and most retail stores are required to close by 10 p.m., and all onsite alcohol consumption sales must end by 9 p.m.

For the most up-to-date information on coronavirus in North Carolina, visit our Live Updates blog here. WFDD wants to hear your stories — connect with us and let us know what you're experiencing.