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DES MOINES, Iowa (KWWL) – The Iowa Department of Public Health has confirmed three cases of the UK variant of COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7. in Iowa.
This variant of the virus is often referred to as the UK variant because it was first detected in the UK. Based on epidemiological and modeling data, researchers believe this strain may spread more easily than the original strain of COVID-19. Current COVID-19 vaccines are considered effective against the variant strain.
Two of the three cases were detected in Johnson County, an adult aged 18 to 40 and an average adult aged 41 to 60. The third case was detected in an adult from Bremer County. The IDPH and local public health are working to understand their exposures and start the process of health surveillance. Anyone who was in close contact with these people will be notified. Individuals were asked to self-isolate according to IDPH and CDC guidelines.
Positive cases were identified by the State Hygienic Lab. which has been testing the British variant since early December.
Viruses are constantly changing by mutation, and new variants of a virus should appear over time. Sometimes new variants emerge and disappear. Other times new variants emerge and persist. Multiple variants of the virus to the The origin of COVID-19 has been documented in the United States and around the world during this pandemic. Public health will continue to work with our partners at SHL to monitor these trends and it is very important that we all continue to apply good measures to protect public health, said the epidemiologist.
According to the IDPH, the emergence of new variants underscores the critical need for Iowans to continue to follow public health guidelines:
- Wear a mask or mask
- Practice social distancing with people outside your home
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
- Stay home if you feel sick
- Get tested if you are exposed to or have symptoms of COVID-19
- Consider getting vaccinated against COVID-19 when it is available to you
The IDPH says these case counts represent only variant strains confirmed by genomic sequencing and may not accurately reflect the actual number of variant cases in the state.
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