January 25, 2021, 12:29 PM HST
The Hawaii Department of State’s State Laboratories Department has detected SARS-CoV-2 variant L452R. This strain of COVID-19 was first detected in Denmark in March 2020. It is now found in more than a dozen states in the United States.
Science has not shown that the L452R variant spreads faster or poses a greater threat than other COVID-19 strains, but there is concern that it has been linked to a growing number of cases in California, including several major outbreaks.
“It is common to find virus variants such as COVID-19. Some present greater risks than others. said Dr. Sarah Kemble, an acting state epidemiologist. “We are also working with our colleagues from other states the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on the characteristics of this particular variant. ”
State department laboratoryjoes Division began genome sequencing in June looking for possible variants of COVID-19. He now examines 75 copies a week and has developed a testing algorithm designed to find variants as soon as possible after arriving.
Variant B.1.1.7 first encountered in the United Kingdom and variant B.1.351 first encountered in South Africa have improved transmissibility. Neither B.1.1.7 nor B.1.351 was detected in Hawai’i.
“Hawai’i is not immune to new strains,” said Dr. Elizabeth Char, director of health. “The arrival of the L452R reminds us that we need to wear masks, keep the physical distance of people out of our nearby homes and avoid congestion. These safe practices along with COVID-19 vaccines will help us stop the spread.”
Regardless of which variants of COVID-19 are found in Hawaii, residents and visitors can play an important role in slowing down virus transmission. This includes:
- Wear masks when leaving home
- Limit interactions with people outside nearby homes
- Maintain a physical distance of at least 6 feet away
- Wash your hands for 20 seconds
- Get COVID-19 vaccine if available and vaccine is available (and continue these safety measures even after vaccination)