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KNOXVILLE, Tennessee (WVLT) – A potentially dangerous new strain of COVID-19 has been reported in Tennessee, according to the Tennessee Department of Health.
TDH officials said seven samples had been sent to CDC for analysis. The CDC confirmed that the samples were the B117 variant of COVID-19.
According to TDH, Tennessee is among the 20 states reporting cases of COVID-19 caused by variants.
Health officials have said the new strain could be more dangerous because it could be more contagious, up to twice as transmissible, than other known strains of COVID.
“Viruses are constantly changing and new variants are expected to emerge over time,” said a statement from TDH. “This does not change our response to COVID-19 in Tennessee, but reminds us of the need for continued vigilance and the practice of simple actions we can all take to prevent the spread of COVID-19: hands frequently, limit gatherings, maintain social distancing, wear a mask in public, and get vaccinated when qualified to do so. “
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