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Stanly County received its first presumptive positive case of the novel coronavirus Friday afternoon, according to a press release from the Stanly County Health Department.

The individual is isolating at home and willingly cooperating with public health officials. The health department team members are monitoring the individual during their home isolation and are identifying any close contacts to monitor symptoms and contain potential spread, according to the release. No more information will be shared to protect the individual’s privacy. 

“Today’s announcement represents an isolated case of COVID-19 in Stanly County, it is not widespread. The Stanly County Health Department is doing everything possible to protect the health and well-being of this individual and the public,” said David Jenkins, Stanly County Health Director.

There have been more than 15,000 known cases across the country, including more than 160 in North Carolina, though no deaths in the state. Other counties have received their first confirmed cases in recent days including Cabarrus, Rowan, Union, Iredell, Lincoln and Gaston.

The first confirmed case in the state was March 3, when a Wake County man tested positive for the virus. The total number of cases have steadily increased since then.

To help prevent the spread, Gov. Roy Cooper has closed public schools for at least two weeks along with ordering all restaurants and bars to close sit-down service, though they still can offer takeout or delivery.