LINCOLN, Nebraska (KOLN) – The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the Nebraska Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) have confirmed the first known cases of the Brazilian variant of COVID-19, known as P.1, in the state. Two cases have been identified in Douglas County. Investigations are ongoing and ongoing. The P.1 variant has spread across the United States and is likely to be more contagious, according to DHHS.
According to DHHS, test platforms such as Test Nebraska and others will still produce a “positive” result for variant P.1 (and other variants). Vaccines are expected to continue to be effective.
DHHS and NPHL have been working to increase sequencing capabilities in the state. Higher sequencing volumes in the state began in January and NPHL currently has the capacity to sequence more than 100 copies per week.
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