Massachusetts announces second presumptive positive case of coronavirus

If confirmed with the CDC, it would be the state's third case

Providence, R.I. (WLNE) A woman in her 60s from Middlesex County is now the second presumptive positive case in Massachusetts, the state’s Department of Public Health announced Thursday.

If confirmed by the federal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, it would be the state’s third confirmed case.

According to a statement from the department, the woman is symptomatic but did not require hospitalization. She is now recovering at home.

The woman had traveled to northern Italy, a region linked to other infections in the United States, including Rhode Island.

Italy is considered a Level 3 alert country. The CDC advises avoiding all non-essential travel to Level 3 countries, and for a 14-day self-quarantine upon returning from any Level 3 or Level 2 alert country.

“We appreciate this patient’s cooperation,” said Public Health Commissioner Monica Bharel.  “While the risk to Massachusetts remains low, residents should make sure they and their families are well-informed about COVID-19 and heed the CDC’s updated international travel health alert.”

©WLNE-TV/ABC 6 2020