Most contagious variant of COVID-19 found in all Houston wastewater, say city health officials

HOUSTON – The Houston Department of Health announced Monday that the UK variant (B.1.1.7) of the virus that causes COVID-19 has been found in most wastewater treatment plants in the city.

Wastewater samples collected on February 22 detected the UK variant at 31 of the city’s 39 wastewater treatment plants. This is an increase since February 8, when it was detected in 21 of the treatment plants.

“The prevalence of the UK variant in our wastewater shows that it is actively spreading in our city,” said Dr. David Persse, medical director for the city of Houston. “This is another clear indication that we must continue to mask, practice social detachment, wash our hands, get tested and, when possible, be vaccinated.”

Of the wastewater samples collected on February 22, approximately 19% detected the United Kingdom variant.

“I am concerned about this new data on the virus strain in the United Kingdom in Houston, especially at a time when the state of Texas is facilitating measures that have been proven to reduce transmission and ultimately save lives,” said the mayor. Sylvester Turner. “Despite the mixed messages, this is a clear indication that it is too early to stop requiring masks in public places. I urge all Houstonians to continue to mask themselves to protect their families and community. “

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The Houston Department of Health and Houston Water began testing the city’s wastewater for the original strain of the virus in May 2020 to more quickly identify emerging outbreaks and pinpoint precise locations for interventions to break the chains of transmission.

People with COVID-19 eliminate the virus in their stools, regardless of symptoms, the Department of Health said.

The results of the wastewater samples for other highly transmissible variants, including the South Africa, Brazil and California variants, are pending.

Nine cases of the UK variant, one case of the South African variant, two cases of the Brazil variant and 11 cases of the California variant are currently confirmed in Houston, according to the department’s statement on Monday.