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MADISON, Wisconsin – A second variant strain of the virus responsible for COVID-19 has been confirmed in Wisconsin.
The State Department of Health Services said the South African variant, also known as B.1.351, was identified by genome sequencing on Thursday. The variant differs from the UK variant, which was first confirmed in Wisconsin in January.
The B.1.351 variant was discovered in South Africa in samples from October. The researchers said the two new variants are more contagious than the original COVID-19 strain. There is also some evidence to suggest that the South African variant may possibly affect the response of certain antibodies to the virus.
@DHSWI and laboratory partners have identified a second variant strain of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. This means that we must all continue to take precautions to protect ourselves and everyone around us for #StopTheSpread
Get details at https://t.co/GFpeoWbUOz pic.twitter.com/yjNP2oA0KD– WIDeptHealthServices (@DHSWI) March 5, 2021
Experts said that the three licensed vaccines effectively reduce the risk of the virus and its variants.
“It’s important to remember that new variations should emerge over time. Here in Wisconsin, whole genome sequencing of positive specimens of COVID-19 cases is done on a regular basis, ”said Julie Willems Van Dijk, deputy secretary of DHS. “Because these variants can spread more easily than the original strain of SARS-CoV-2, wearing a mask, staying at home, physically distancing yourself and washing your hands continue. to be crucial. ”
As of Friday afternoon, health officials identified one case of the South African variant and 26 cases of the British variant in Wisconsin.
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