MADISON, Wisconsin (WMTV) – The first case of the South African variant COVID-19 has been discovered in the state, the Department of Health Services.
This new variant, coined B.1.351, is completely different from the one originally discovered circulating in the UK, called B.1.1.7.
According to a press release, this variant variety spreads more quickly and easily than the original COVID-19 strain. Researchers do not know if this variant has any impact on the severity of the virus.
“It’s important to remember that new variants are expected to occur over time,” said Julie Willems Van Dijk, DHS deputy secretary. “Here in Wisconsin, whole-genome sequencing of positive specimens of COVID-19 cases is done regularly.”
Health officials noted that this variant can affect the way someone’s antibodies respond to the virus.
The three currently authorized vaccines, Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson, should reduce the risk of COVID-19, even with these variants.
DHS also noted that there were 26 cases of the British variant found in Wisconsin, compared to 19 reported on Thursday. There has only been one case of the South African variant, DHS says.
Willems Van Dijk asked the Wisconsinites to be alert to protect themselves from COVID-19.
“Because these variants can spread more easily than the original SARS-CoV-2 strain, wearing a mask, staying home, physically distancing yourself, and washing your hands remains crucial,” he said. to say.
The department did not notice in which city or county this new variant was found.
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