Three New Cases of Coronavirus Confirmed in California

Three new cases of the new coronavirus were confirmed in California on Sunday, bringing the U.S. total to 11. Health officials predict there will be more cases in the coming days but have warned Americans not to panic. Health officials in Northern California announced Sunday.

The new cases are linked to travel to Wuhan, China, the epicenter of the outbreak that has shaken the stock market, caused a run on face masks, and prompted restrictions on travel.

In San Francisco, a woman visiting family in the Bay Area since Jan. 23 fell ill and has been in isolated at home, along with her relatives, officials announced Sunday afternoon.

Hours later, authorities in neighboring San Benito County said that a couple, both ages 57, were sick with the virus. The husband had visited Wuhan, and infected his wife; neither of them have left their home sick since becoming ill, authorities said.

“While the virus is considered a serious public health threat, based on current information, the risk to the general public in California and locally in San Benito County continues to be low at this time,” said Dr. Marty Fentersheib, the county health officer.