The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced today (Tuesday) they have confirmed two cases of the Indian COVID-19 variant, SARS-CoV-2 B.1.617, in Iowa. Although they are still learning about the characteristics of this strain, it is not being considered a “variant of concern.” The initial indications are there is not currently any evidence of increased transmissibility or more severe disease caused by this variant. “However, as a matter of public interest given the virus impact and newly issued travel restrictions to India, the P.1 and B.1.1.7 variant strains, which were previously confirmed by IDPH, are considered ‘variants of concern.’” The two cases were confirmed in an adult and older adult in Jefferson County and IDPH and local public health are working with the individuals to understand exposures and initiate the public health monitoring process. “Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 is the best way to prevent this, or any other currently circulating strain of the virus from spreading through the population,” says IDPH State Medical Director and Epidemiologist, Dr. Catilin Pedati. “Since the vaccine is now open to all Iowans over the age of 16, we have the opportunity to use this tool to protect ourselves our loved ones and our communities.” A link to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) variant tracking tool and for scheduling vaccinations can be found included below.
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CDC variant tracking information: https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery#variant-proportions
Vaccination information for Iowa: https://vaccinate.iowa.gov/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
