By NewsDesk @bactiman63
The South Dakota Department of Health (SD-DOH) has confirmed that the B.1.1.7 variant, aka the “U.K. variant” of COVID-19, has been detected in the state. The findings were verified by an out-of-state commercial laboratory. Thus far, there have been two identified cases of the variant, and neither patient was hospitalized, and both have since recovered.
“This variant is something our Department and partners have been closely monitoring,” said Kim Malsam-Rysdon, Secretary of Health. “I continue to encourage South Dakotans to practice good hygiene, get tested if they produce COVID-like symptoms, and get vaccinated as soon as your turn becomes available.”
Notably, current COVID-19 vaccines have proven safe and effective against this variant. Proper hygiene is always important – wash your hands regularly, stay home when you are sick, and wear a mask when it is appropriate.
As of Mar. 11, the CDC has reported 3700 cases of the B.1.1.7 variant from 48 states and Washington DC and Puerto Rico.
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