There has been another confirmed case of the United Kingdom COVID-19 variant in New Jersey, this time in the north ward of Trenton, Mayor W. Reed Gusciora announced today.
City officials were notified that a COVID-19 test from a North Trenton resident showed the presence of the United Kingdom COVID-19 variant (B.1.1.7), the mayor said. That resident has since tested negative, and the one other person in the household is undergoing testing now.
The first two cases of the same variant were reported in New Jersey on Jan. 22. According to the CDC website, this variant spreads faster and more easily than other versions of the virus.
“With the emergence of this variant in Trenton, we can’t think of a more important time to remind our residents to keep their guard up,” said Gusciora. “That means practicing social distancing, wearing your mask, and making sure to get tested if you have any symptoms.”
The city is offering COVID-19 testing at the MLK School on 401 Brunswick Ave on Feb. 9 and Feb. 12, 2021, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. No registration is needed, and tests will be administered on a first-come-first-served basis. While there is no charge for testing, residents are advised to bring their insurance cards if they have them, along with proof of Trenton residency.
According to city health officials, the vaccines being administered in the Trenton area are still effective against this COVID-19 variant. Residents who need help registering for vaccines are advised to call the city’s Department of Health at (609)-989-3242.
To date, Trenton has had a total of 6,373 COVID-19 cases with 85 related deaths, Gusciora said.
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