Coronavirus Case In Philadelphia, Officials Say

PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia now has its first presumptive case of coronavirus, according to officials.

The Philadelphia Department of Health said Tuesday that first case of COVID-19 novel coronavirus has been confirmed in Philadelphia.

Officials said Tuesday afternoon the patient is an adult who is being treated at home.

The patient was exposed to someone believed to have the virus, officials said. The CDC will test further to confirm the case.

Now, health officials are working to find people who had contact with the patient and quarantine them, which follows the city's two-stage approach to fighting the virus: case containment and reducing city-wide spread.

Officials said Tuesday they are recommending the public not attend events with more than 5,000 people, such as sporting events and the upcoming St. Patrick's Day Parade.

The city is using a special system to share important information about COVID-19 through free text alerts. To get the free messages, text the keyword COVIDPHL to 888-777 to receive info and updates through ReadyPhiladelphia.

On Monday night, health officials said five people in the city were being investigated for the illness.

>>>More updates on coronavirus in Pennsylvania.

Last week health officials said they expected cases to emerge in Philadelphia. The new case marks the 12th in Pennsylvania as of Tuesday.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health announced Tuesday morning that there is one additional presumptive positive case of COVID-19 in Montgomery County. That resident has been hospitalized. Eight of Pennsylvania's cases are in Montgomery County, which appears to be the epicenter of the outbreak in Eastern Pennsylvania.

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One case is in Delaware County, one in Monroe County, and another in Wayne County.

Four patients are hospitalized, the others are quarantined, officials said. One of the patients in Montgomery County is in critical condition.

How It Spreads

The virus that causes COVID-19 is spreading from person-to-person. Someone who is actively sick with COVID-19 can spread the illness to others. That is why CDC recommends that these patients be isolated either in the hospital or at home (depending on how sick they are) until they are better and no longer pose a risk of infecting others.

There is currently no vaccine for COVID-19.

While the best way to prevent illness is to avoid virus exposure, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention always recommends taking preventive actions to contain the spread of viruses. This includes:

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipes.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.