TALLAHASSEE, Florida (WCTV) – The Leon County Health Department says the variant COVID-19 that first appeared in the UK is now in the area. The health department confirmed two cases of the UK variant in the county, according to a press release.
“DOH Leon regards these individuals as priority cases and epidemiologists are working to identify contacts close to the individuals and monitor them closely,” says the statement.
The CDC says that while there is no conclusive evidence that the variant makes people sicker than the original COVID-19 strain, it is worrying because it spreads more quickly, is significantly more contagious and vaccines may be less effective against it.
Moderna and Pfizer both say their current vaccines appear to work against the UK variant, the statement said.
“The arrival of the variant in our county is yet another reminder that the fight against this deadly virus is far from over,” said DOH Leon health officer Claudia Blackburn. “Although more COVID-19 vaccines are on the way, supplies are still very limited. That is why it is essential that we all remain dedicated to following public health mitigation strategies wearing a mask, staying at least two meters away, avoiding crowds, washing our hands frequently and following isolation and quarantine recommendations.
For more information on coronavirus, visit the Florida Department of Health website.
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