Health officials report first case of new, rapidly spreading COVID-19 variant in Hawaii

The state’s health department today confirmed that its labs division has detected the L452R variant of SARS-CoV-2.

This strain of COVID-19, officials said, was first detected in Denmark in March 2020 and is now found in more than a dozen US states.

Although science has not shown that the L452R variant spreads faster or poses a greater threat than other strains of COVID-19, officials said there was concern as it was linked to a number growing cases – including several large epidemics – in California.

“It is common to find variants of viruses like COVID-19. Some present greater risks than others. Acting State Epidemiologist Dr Sarah Kemble said in a press release. “We are working with our colleagues in other states as well as with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to learn more about the characteristics of this particular variant.”

The department’s Laboratories Division began genome sequencing in June to look for possible COVID-19 variants, and now examines 75 samples per week. He also developed a testing algorithm designed to find variants as soon as possible after they arrive.

Officials said that the B.1.1.7 variant first found in the UK and the B.1.351 variant first found in South Africa both have “improved transmissibility”. Neither has yet been detected in Hawaii.

“Hawaii is not immune to new strains,” Health Director Dr. Elizabeth Char said in a statement. “The arrival of the L452R reminds us that we must wear masks, maintain a physical distance from people outside our immediate homes and avoid crowds. These safe practices associated with COVID-19 vaccines will help us stop the spread. “