(Via ABC11)
"RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- One person has tested positive for the novel coronavirus in Wake County, health officials said Tuesday. Governor Roy Cooper and the Coronavirus Task Force will host a news conference at 3:30 p.m.
In a news release, Cooper said the patient is currently at home in isolation. "I know that people are worried about this virus, and I want to assure North Carolinians our state is prepared," Cooper said in a written statement. "Our task force and state agencies are working closely with local health departments, health care providers and others to quickly identify and respond to cases that might occur."
Officials said the patient contracted the virus after visiting a nursing home in Seattle, Wash., where seven people have died from the novel coronavirus.
The North Carolina State Laboratory of Public Health announced Tuesday that laboratory technicians could perform testing for the virus in house, which would allow health officials to take swift action against any cases of the virus, specifically known as COVID-19.
"Testing is already underway in our state lab and that means we get results faster," Governor Roy Cooper said in a written statement. "Our public health leaders have been working around the clock to ensure that we are prepared."
Any positive tests would still require confirmation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, per Food and Drug Administration requirements."