Highly contagious COVID-19 variant reported in Harris County, Judge Hidalgo says

HOUSTON – The highly contagious strand of the COVID-19 variant, first discovered in the UK, is being reported in Harris County and the state of Texas, according to Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo.

Hidalgo tweeted: “We have confirmed the FIRST Texas case of the most contagious, the ‘British’ # COVID-19[FEMALE[FEMININE strand # B117 in Harris County. It’s worrying. Along with our recent trends, we could be on the way to a crisis if we don’t change our behavior NOW. Do your part. “

Harris County Public Health has also confirmed the first case of variant B.1.1.7 of COVID-19, saying it was the first known case in the county and state.

The infected patient is a 30- to 40-year-old male in southwest Harris County who has never traveled. HCPH said the man is stable, isolated and will remain in quarantine until cleared by public health officials.

HCPH epidemiologists contacted those they identified as having close contact with the patient. Health officials are conducting an extensive investigation in conjunction with Texas State Department Health Services.

Based on studies from the UK, scientists believe that the B.1.1.7 variant is more easily transmitted than previously identified strains of the SARS-CoV-2 variant, but not more severe in symptoms. Currently approved vaccines are believed to be effective against this variant.

“The health and safety of all members of our community remains our top priority. Although mutations in a virus are expected, we are closely monitoring this case and any potential contact to prevent the continued spread of the virus at all levels, “said Dr Sherri Onyiego, Harris County Health Authority,” Prevention measures for this strain are no different and our community should continue to stay at home in addition to wearing face masks, social distancing, getting tested, and washing their hands frequently. We know our community is increasingly fatigued by COVID-19, but with cases and hospitalizations steadily increasing, now is not the time to let our guard down.