DES MOINES, Iowa (KWWL) – The Iowa Department of Public Health confirmed three cases of the UK COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 variant. in Iowa.
This variant of the virus is often referred to as the United Kingdom variant because it was first detected in the United Kingdom. Based on epidemiological and modeling data, the researchers believe that this strain can spread more easily than the original COVID-19 strain. Current COVID-19 vaccines are considered effective against the variant strain.
Two of the three cases were detected in Johnson County, an adult between the ages of 18-40 and a middle-aged adult between the ages of 41-60. The third case was detected in an adult in Bremer County. IDPH and local public health are working to understand their exposures and initiate the health monitoring process. Anyone who has been in close contact with these individuals will be notified. Individuals were asked to isolate according to IDPH and CDC guidelines.
Positive cases were identified by the State Hygiene Laboratory. who has been testing for the UK variant since early December.
“Viruses constantly change through mutations, and new variants of a virus must occur over time. Sometimes new variants appear and disappear. Other times, new variants appear and persist. Several variants of the virus that causes COVID-19 have been documented in the United States and around the world during this pandemic. Public health will continue to work with our SHL partners to monitor these trends and it is very important that we all continue to practice good public health protection measures, “Dr. Caitlin Pedati , State Medical Director and Epidemiologist said.
IDPH says the emergence of new variants underscores the critical need for Iowa citizens to continue to follow public health guidelines:
- Use a face mask or cover
- Practice social detachment with people outside your home
- Clean your hands frequently with soap and water
- Stay home if you feel sick
- Get tested if you are exposed or have symptoms of COVID-19
- Consider having a COVID-19 vaccine when it is available to you
The IDPH says that these case counts represent only the variant strains confirmed through genomic sequencing and may not accurately reflect the true number of variant cases in the state.