A more contagious variant of COVID-19 is found widespread in wastewater in Houston, city health officials say

HOUSTON The Houston Department of Health announced on Monday that the British variant (B.1.1.7) of the virus that causes COVID-19 has been found in most of the city’s wastewater treatment plants.

Wastewater samples collected on 22 February detected the British variant at 31 of the city’s 39 wastewater treatment plants. This is an increase from February 8 when it was detected at 21 of the treatment plants.

“The presence of the British variant in our wastewater shows that it is actively spreading in our city,” said Dr. David Persse, chief medical officer of the city of Houston, said. “This is another clear indication that we need to keep on masking, doing social distance, washing our hands, getting tested and, if possible, getting vaccinated.”

Of the wastewater samples collected on 22 February, about 19% detected the British variant.

“I am concerned about this new data on the British strain of the virus in Houston, especially at a time when the state of Texas is easing mandates on measures that are proven to reduce transmission and ultimately save lives,” said Sylvester Turner, mayor , said. ‘Despite mixed messages, this is a clear indication that it’s too soon to stop needing masks in public places. I urge all Houstoniers to continue to protect their families and community. ”

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The Department of Health of Houston and Houston Water began testing the city’s wastewater for the original strain of the virus in May 2020 to identify faster emerging outbreaks and determine exact locations for interventions to break the transmission chains.

People with COVID-19 have shed virus in their feces, regardless of the symptoms, the health department said.

The results of wastewater samples for other highly transferable varieties, including the South African, Brazilian and California varieties, are pending.

Nine cases of the British variant, one case of the South African variant, two cases of the Brazilian variant and 11 cases of the California variant are currently being confirmed in Houston, according to the department’s news release on Monday.