STILL SPREADING

Coronavirus Death Toll Rises to 259 in China as U.S. Confirms Seventh Case

China reported almost 11,800 cases of the new virus in the country.

China reported a rise of coronavirus deaths to 259 on Friday, as the U.S. confirmed its seventh case. According to the Associated Press, the number of coronavirus cases in China, where it originated, has hit almost 11,800.

Six of the seven U.S. cases are in people who traveled from Wuhan, China, the epicenter of the virus. California health officials told reporters that the latest to be afflicted is a man who arrived at San Jose International Airport on Jan. 24, went directly to his home and has mostly stayed there, only leaving twice to seek outpatient care. The man has been “strictly isolating” himself at home since his travel, and has mainly been in contact with a few household members, authorities said. “I think the contact list will be rather short,” Dr. Sara Cody, county health officer, said. Officials will be monitoring the man closely while he remains at home.

Two others in California, two in Illinois, one in Arizona, and one in Washington state also have the virus. Federal officials have announced a public health emergency, unveiled entry restrictions to some foreign nationals, and mandated quarantines for some U.S. citizens returning from China.