Results In For First NYC Resident Tested For Novel Coronavirus

NEW YORK CITY — The first New York City dweller to be tested for novel coronavirus does not have it, the city’s Health Department said Tuesday.

The Bellevue Hospital patient is the first of three New York City residents to receive test results from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, officials said. Two cases are still pending.

“We’re relieved to hear that the person in question does not have the novel coronavirus,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio.

“I can’t say this enough: if you have the symptoms and recent travel history, please see your health provider immediately.”

Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Tuesday 11 New York State residents have been tested and cleared while six cases are still pending.

More than 490 have died since the 2019 novel coronavirus began its spread in Wuhuan, China earlier this month and it has since been declared a public health emergency.

As of Tuesday, there have been 11 confirmed U.S. cases confirmed in California, Washington state, Arizona, Illinois and Massachusetts, officials said.

The CDC recommends anyone who feels sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing — and traveled to Hubei province China within two weeks — contact a doctor and disclose both symptoms and recent travel.

Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot assured New Yorkers this most recent case proved how well prepared is the city to handle the virus, which de Blasio has said will hit New York sooner rather than later.

“The response and care the patient received reflects how well the systems we have in place are working," Barbot said.

"We want to thank everyone for all they did, and we will keep New Yorkers informed as the situation develops.”