DES MOINES, Iowa (KCRG) – The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) has confirmed one case of the Brazilian COVID-19 variant (SARS-CoV-2 P.1) in Johnson County.
IDPH says local public health officials have already started contacting the individual who tested positive to understand exposure and begin the health monitoring process, including notifying someone with whom the person has now had contact.
Officials say they are still learning about the characteristics of the Brazilian strain, including any possible impact on the vaccine’s effectiveness.
The case has been identified by the State Hygienic Lab, which is identifying which COVID strains are circulating in Iowa. According to the IDPH, a routine analysis of genetic sequencing data helped identify the new strain in Iowa.
The emergence of new variants emphasizes that it is critical for Iowans to continue the mitigation efforts we know to slow the spread of COVID-19:
- Wear a mask or face mask
- Practice social distance with those outside your household
- Clean your hands regularly with soap and water
- Stay home if you feel sick
- Get tested if you have been exposed to or have symptoms of COVID-19
- Get a COVID-19 vaccine if one is offered to you
- Read the CDC guidelines here if you are fully vaccinated for COVID-19
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