Hancock County identifies first case of B.1.1.7. variant

The first Hancock County case of the new COVID-19 variant, B.1.1.7. was identified in an adult female resident who tested positive for the virus March 7. 

On March 26 Hancock Public Health was notified of the results of the ongoing surveillance and whole genome sequencing aimed at finding out the extent of the spread of variants of concern into communities. All viruses, including the virus that causes COVID-19, change through mutation, and new variants of the virus are expected to occur over time. 

This variant, referred to as B.1.1.7, was first discovered to be circulating widely in England at the end of 2020 in November and December. Based on epidemiologic and modeling studies, researchers believe that this new strain spreads more rapidly and easily than the original strain of SARS-CoV-2. There is some evidence emerging that the new strain may cause an increased risk of death. 

“It is concerning, but not unexpected, that we have identified a case of a variant that spreads more easily,” Hancock Public Health Commissioner Karim Baroudi said. “Since only a small portion of tests collected are genetically sequenced, this means that there are likely many more cases of this variant spreading in our communities. Viruses constantly change as they spread from person to person and replicate. Fortunately, we can prevent the virus from replicating and mutating by consistently using all the tools we have for stopping the spread.” 

Based on available evidence, current vaccines for COVID-19 also work against this new variant. Protective actions that prevent the spread of COVID-19 also will prevent the spread of the new variant, B.1.1.7. It is critically important, with emerging mutations of SARS-CoV-2, and those that may be more infectious, to follow best public health practices including: 

— Get vaccinated for COVID-19.

— Wearing a mask around others. 

— Keep gatherings small and staying 6 feet apart from others. 

— Washing hands often. 

— Always opting for the outdoors or well-ventilated indoor spaces.