Nation's first case of Brazilian COVID variant found in Minnesota
Eight infections with U.K. variant also identified.
By Jeremy Olson Star Tribune JANUARY 25, 2021 — 8:14PM
Minnesota has identified the nation's first-known COVID-19 infection that involves a more contagious Brazilian coronavirus strain.
Genomic sequencing of lab samples from COVID-19 patients identified the Brazil P.1 variant in a Minnesota resident who recently traveled to Brazil, the Minnesota Department of Health reported on Monday.
State Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm said the discovery underscores the need for continued mask-wearing and social-distancing practices to limit transmission of COVID-19, which is spread by a coronavirus known as SARS-CoV-2.
Infections, hospitalizations and deaths from COVID-19 have been declining in Minnesota over the past month, but Malcolm said new strains could contribute to a new wave.
More:
https://www.startribune.com/nation-s-first-brazil-viral-variant-found-in-minnesota/600015003/
Also posted in LBN:
https://www.democraticunderground.com/10142680705
