Second case of coronavirus confirmed in Illinois; first case of person-to-person transmission in the U.S.

Posted on January 30, 2020
IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike spoke at a news conference Thursday. (Photo Illinois.gov)

 

By Illinois Information Service

CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Public Health is announcing the first case of person-to-person transmission of the coronavirus in the U.S.

IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said the first patient confirmed in Illinois infected her spouse, a man in his 60’s. He had not traveled overseas but interacted with his wife when she returned from China. Ezike said the new case is not cause to panic.

“I want to emphasize that the risk of this novel coronavirus to the general public in Illinois remains low,” said Ezike.

Health officials said they are closely monitoring those who have come in close contact with the couple. Currently, 21 people in the state are being looked at for possible infection.

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