25 January 2021, 12:29 HST
The Department of Health Institutions in Hawaii has detected the SARS-CoV-2 variant L452R. This strain COVID-19 was first detected in Denmark in March 2020. It is now found in more than a dozen US states.
Science has not shown that the L452R variant spreads faster or poses a greater threat than other COVID-19 strains, but there is concern because it has been linked to a growing number of cases in California, including several major outbreaks.
‘It is common to find variants of viruses such as COVID-19. Some carry greater risks than others. ‘says Dr Sarah Kemble, acting state epidemiologist. ‘We also work with our colleagues in other states the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to learn more about the characteristics of this particular variant. ”
The department’s state laboratoryies Division started searching for possible COVID-19 variants in June in genomic order. 75 samples per week are now being examined and a test algorithm is being developed to find variants as soon as possible after arrival.
The B.1.1.7 variant first found in the United Kingdom and the B.1.351 variant first found in South Africa both improved portability. Neither B.1.1.7 nor B.1.351 was detected in Hawaii.
“Hawai’i are not immune to new strains,” said Dr. Elizabeth Char, director of health, said. ‘The arrival of L452R reminds us to wear masks, keep physical distance from people outside our immediate household and avoid crowds. These safe practices along with COVID-19 vaccines will help us stop the spread. ”
Regardless of which COVID-19 variant is found in Hawai’i, residents and visitors can play an important role in slowing the transmission of the virus. These include:
- Wear masks when leaving the house
- Limit interactions with people outside immediate households
- Keep physical distance of at least 6 feet apart
- Wash hands for 20 seconds
- To obtain the COVID-19 vaccine if eligible and vaccination available (and to continue these precautions even after vaccination)