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IDAHO FALL – Eastern Idaho public health has identified the presence of two coronavirus variants in the district. The variant of the United Kingdom (B.1.1.7) and the California variant are a progenitor of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is the virus that causes COVID-19.
Both variants have already been identified in other parts of the state, according to an EIPH news release.
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With the emergence of these variants in eastern Idaho, officials say it is imperative that the public follow recommendations to slow the spread of the virus. These recommendations include:
- Keep hands clean and avoid touching your face unnecessarily.
- Staying home when you are sick, except for seeking medical help.
- Follow all guidance on quarantine and isolation.
- Preserving the space between you and others who are not from the same household.
- If you can not get a distance, you must wear a mask correctly.
- To be vaccinated if you are eligible.
The best results in reducing virus transmission were, according to the release, all these strategies were done in collaboration with each other. Health officials say no single intervention tool is perfect for reducing the spread of the virus. National health officials say the different vaccines still show efficacy against the variants.
Last week, the provinces of Bonneville and Madison made national news because they are the fastest growing hotspots for the virus in the country. There are currently no mandates in any of the countries, but recommendations for masks and the collection of restrictions remain in force.
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There are currently 653 active COVID-19 cases in the district. Since March 2020, there have been 25,807 cases in the district, with 25,154 recoveries and 228 deaths, according to the latest statistics.
Visit the EIPH website for more information on the COVID vaccine, including who is currently eligible to receive the vaccine, how to schedule an appointment, what to expect during your appointment and information on the safety and efficacy of vaccine .
For the latest news on COVID-19, visit the EastIdahoNews.com COVID-19 page.