'The Pandemic Has Now Arrived': Officials Announce First Confirmed Coronavirus Case In Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Coronavirus has made its way to Philadelphia. Officials on Tuesday announced the city has its first confirmed COVID-19 case.
Philadelphia Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley says the woman is receiving treatment at home and is quarantined. He says the patient was exposed to another person who has coronavirus.
The Philadelphia Health Department is reaching out to people the patient might have been in contact with and will quarantine those close contacts.
"That means that the virus is circulating in Philadelphia now," Philadelphia Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley said. "We expected this but this does mean the pandemic has now arrived in the city of Philadelphia."
Officials also say 17 people in Philadelphia are being investigated for possible cases of coronavirus.
Farley says they are recommending people not to attend public gatherings that would have more than 5,000 people, including sporting events.
Officials say their main goal is to limit the spread of the virus.
"We're not canceling those gatherings but we're recommending that people not attend those public gatherings. This is especially important for people who are vulnerable to this infection, that will be the elderly and people with chronic illnesses," Farley said.
Farley says that the two most common COVID-19 symptoms are a fever and a dry cough.
"If you have those, stay away from other people," Farley said.
There are currently 12 coronavirus cases in the state of Pennsylvania, including eight in Montgomery County.
CBS3's Howard Monroe contributed to this report.
