A person in New York City is being tested for the coronavirus, according to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

Health officials say that the individual who had recently traveled from China had a fever, sore throat and a runny nose. The individual, who is under 40 years-old has been hospitalized at Bellevue and is in stable condition.

 

 

Mayor Bill de Blasio and Commissioner of Health and Mental Hygiene Dr. Oxiris Barbot spoke on the matter at a press conference on Saturday. Mayor de Blasio said that the city is prepared if the case turns out to be positive.

“We take it very, very seriously and we will use all measures at our disposal to protect New Yorkers,” de Blasio said. “Obviously we are working now with the guidance provided by the federal government. We are going to work immediately to implement that guidance. There's a lot we still need to get clarity on regarding it, the orders that were issued. There's a lot we have to work though with the Centers for Disease Control. There are many outstanding issues. But what's clear is we’re going to work immediately to keep all New Yorkers safe.”

Another illness with similar symptoms has been ruled out and officials say it will take up to two days to confirm whether or not the individual has the coronavirus. If the case is positive, the mayor said that the health department is prepared to trace all contact the patient had with the public since arriving in New York.

Anyone who thinks they may have the virus is urged to seek immediate medical help.