LINCOLN, Nebraska (KOLN) – The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the Nebraska Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) confirmed the first known cases of the Brazilian variant of COVID-19, known as P.1, in the state. Two cases have been identified in Douglas County. Investigations are ongoing and ongoing. The P.1 variant is spreading across the United States and is probably more contagious, according to DHHS.
According to DHHS, test platforms like Test Nebraska and others will produce a “positive” result for variant P.1 (and other variants). Vaccinations are expected to remain effective.
DHHS and NPHL have been working to increase sequencing capabilities in the state. Larger sequencing volumes in the state began in January and the NPHL currently has the capacity to sequence more than 100 specimens per week.
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