St. Clair County, MI — The SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 variant that originated in the United Kingdom was first identified in St. Clair County in February, and the Health Department has just reported three more cases in the county.
Even though the B.1.1.7 variant has been shown to be more contagious, currently, it doesn’t seem to cause more severe illness or affect clinical outcomes.
Dr. Annette Mercatante Medical Health Officer of the St. Clair County Health Department (SCCHD) said, “We (SCCHD) are doubling down with variant case investigations. Suspect cases will be contacted more often and required to quarantine for 14 days vs. 10. Since the variant can be more contagious, the virus could potentially infect more people with less exposure.
The recommendations for protecting oneself against the new variant remain the same as the COVID-19 prevention practices health organizations have been encouraging for the last year. Wear a mask, observe physical distancing, wash your hands, avoid crowds, and follow isolation and quarantine guidance. The Health Department also recommends getting vaccinated when the vaccine becomes available to you.
Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand
