Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Saturday that the
COVID-19 variant first detected in Brazil was reported in a New York City
hospital.
A Brooklyn resident in their 90s was diagnosed
with the latest variant. It's the first known case in the state.
State officials say there are at least 48 cases
of the Brazilian variant throughout the U.S. and the number could potentially
grow.
Cuomo issued a statement saying, "While its
normal for a virus to mutate, the best way to protect yourself is to continue
to wear a well-fitted mask, avoid large crowds, social distance, wash your
hands and get vaccinated when it’s your turn."
Briarcliff Manor infectious disease specialist
Dr. Harish Moorjani says the variant could be more severe and is more
contagious.
“The good news is that we are way ahead of the curve here,” Moorjani says. “We
have the ability to genotype these variants, figure out how they’re different
and respond to it appropriately if necessary.”
Yonkers resident Mary Carey, 70, survived the
coronavirus and says people need to remember that if they aren’t vaccinated
they could have a lifelong illness from the disease.
Doctors are reminding the public that those who
are elderly or with underlying conditions continue to be at the highest risk
for contracting COVID-19 and developing serious complications.