MADISON, Wis (WMTV) – The first case of the South African COVID-19 variant has been discovered in the state, the Department of Health Services.
This new variant, created B.1.351, is completely separate from the original discovered circulating in the UK, named B.1.1.7.
According to a news release, this variant strain spreads faster and easier than the original strain of COVID-19. Researchers do not know if this variant affects the severity of the virus.
“It is important to remember that new variants are expected to emerge over time,” said Julie Willems Van Dijk, deputy secretary of DHS. “Here in Wisconsin, the entire genome sequence of positive samples from COVID-19 cases is done regularly.”
Health officials have noted that this variant can affect how someone’s antibodies react to the virus.
All three vaccines currently approved, Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson, should reduce the risk of COVID-19, even with these variants.
DHS also noted that 26 cases of the British variant were found in Wisconsin, compared to the 19 reported on Thursday. There has only been one case of the South African variant, says DHS.
Willems Van Dijk called on Wisconsinites to be vigilant in protecting themselves against COVID-19.
“Because these variants spread more easily than the original SARS-CoV-2 form, wearing a mask, staying home, physical distance and washing your hands are crucial,” she said.
The department did not notice in which city or country this new variant was found.
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