Health officials in Houston warned Monday that most coronavirus variants are detected at most wastewater treatment plants in the city, indicating continued and uncontrolled spread of the more infectious virus strain community.
In a news release issued on March 8, officials said samples collected on February 22 detect the British variant, also identified as B.1.1.7, at 31 of the city’s 39 wastewater treatment plants. Earlier in the month, it was detected on 21 of the plans.
“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 Houston, said in the release. “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.”
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Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced last week that the state will no longer fulfill a mask mandate as federal officials urge states not to stop restrictions too soon.
Abbott said last week: “The removal of nationwide mandates does not end personal responsibility.” “It’s just that state mandates are no longer needed.
The repeal takes effect on March 10. Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner said the new evidence of widespread variation is amid the relaxed constraints.
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“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 the mandates on measures that are proven to reduce transmission and ultimately save lives,” he said in the news release of March 8 said. . “Despite mixed messages, it is a clear indication that it is 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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Wastewater in colleges and cities has been monitored to monitor the spread, as even those without asymptomatic disease shed the virus in feces. Houston’s supervision is done in collaboration with Rice University and Baylor College of Medicine.