WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency has announced two cases of the COVID-19 variant B.1.1.7 have been identified in St. Joseph County.
The individuals have been in isolation and close contacts quarantined since initial COVID-19 diagnosis.
Health officer Rebecca Burns said the COVID-19 virus, as expected with a coronavirus, has changed over the past year. The variant originated in the United Kingdom and has been found throughout the United States, with the first case in Michigan recorded in January.
The B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily and is believed to be more contagious. However, there is no indication that it affects the clinical outcomes or disease severity compared to the original strain.
In short, Burns said the variant is more contagious, meaning the virus could potentially infect more people with less exposure.
Based on available evidence, current tests and vaccines for COVID-19 also work against this new variant. Protective actions that prevent the spread of COVID-19 will also prevent the spread of the new variant, Burns said.
