Hawaii health officials report the first case of a new, rapidly spreading variant of COVID-19

The state Department of Health confirmed today that its Laboratory Division has detected the L452R variant of SARS-CoV-2.

This strain of COVID-19, officials said, was first detected in Denmark in March 2020 and is now found in more than a dozen U.S. states.

Although science has not shown that the L452R variant spreads faster or poses a greater threat than other COVID-19 strains, officials said there was concern because it was associated with an increasing number of cases – including several large outbreaks – in California.

“It is common to find variants of viruses such as COVID-19. Some present greater risks than others. ”Said Dr. Sarah Kemble, a practicing state epidemiologist, in a press release. “We are working with our colleagues in other states, as well as with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to learn more about the characteristics of this particular variant.”

The department’s Laboratory Division began genome sequencing in June to look for possible variants of COVID-19 and now examines 75 specimens a week. He also developed a test algorithm designed to find variants as quickly as possible after their arrival.

Officials said variant B.1.1.7 found for the first time in the UK and variant B.1.351 found for the first time in South Africa have “improved transmissibility”. Neither has yet been detected in Hawaii.

“Hawaii is not immune to new strains,” said Director of Health Dr. Elizabeth Char in a statement. “The arrival of the L452R reminds us that we must wear masks, keep physical distance from people outside our immediate homes and avoid crowds. These safe practices, together with the COVID-19 vaccines, will help us prevent spread. “