New COVID variant of concern identified in Lucas County

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TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – Two cases of a new variant of COVID have been identified in Lucas County, according to the Toledo-Lucas County Department of Health.

The B.1.429 variant was first detected in California. According to the CDC, B.1.429 showed evidence of increased transmissibility of around 20% and a potential decrease in vaccine efficacy or naturally acquired immunity.

The variant of concern B.1.429 (VOC) is the second known VOC that the Ohio Department of Health has identified in Lucas County through routine passive surveillance of laboratory samples taken from individuals infected with COVID -19. Recently, the Department of Health reported the identification of five cases of VOC B.1.1.7 from the UK.

Each of these variants approaches around 10% of national cases based on CDC surveillance conducted in February 2021.

Lucas County is also currently experiencing an increase in cases starting the week of March 22. Each day from Tuesday to Saturday, the number of daily cases was almost double the regular 2-week daily average of 45 cases the county saw in the previous one. month.

At present, the ODH has not recommended any additional control measures. The Department of Health calls on all who live, learn, work or play in our community to continue to be vigilant with current mitigation strategies, including:

  • Maintain a social distance of 6 feet from people outside your household;
  • Appropriate use of a face shield in public or around people outside your home;
  • Stay at home when you are not feeling well;
  • Avoid crowds and poorly ventilated areas as much as possible;
  • Receive a COVID-19 vaccine when available.

Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and your family against serious illnesses and infections. All three vaccines currently available in Lucas County have demonstrated protection against variants, including B.1.1.7 and B.1.429. Remember, the best vaccine is the one you have.

All Ohioans aged 16 and over are now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. Eligible individuals can visit the Department of Health website to make an appointment www.lucascountyhealth.com/covidvaccine.

Copyright 2021 WTVG. All rights reserved.

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