, details an investigation into the spread of the first identified cases of the B.1.1.7 UK variant in Minnesota and urges the public to engage in “mitigation measures such as mask use, physical distancing, avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated indoor spaces, isolation of persons with diagnosed COVID-19, quarantine of close contacts of persons with COVID-19, and adherence to CDC travel guidance.” gives a more thorough picture of the spread of the B.1.1.7 UK variant throughout the U.S.
In addition to studies on the UK B.1.1.7 variant, we have already seen evidence of how quickly the California variant B.1.429 and the collection of viruses with the mutation 677 spreads through the population. It is clear from these domestic and international examples that the U.S. needs to act fast to stop a potential rapid rise in Covid-19 cases stemming from new variants.
Americans are becoming complacent as cases decline, but now is not the time to be rolling back restrictions as some states are. As seen in Figure 3, Florida has one of the highest concentrations of the UK B.1.1.7 variant, yet Governor Ron DeSantis has recently rolled back Covid-19 restrictions entirely and has not enforced a mask mandate. A mistake which could have dire consequences. The UK B.1.1.7 and South African B.1.
Everyone needs to accept a vaccine when available to them, but a vaccine is not a get out-of-covid free card. Currently, we know thatagainst the South African B.1.351 variant. Until we have comprehensive data on the efficacy of all approved vaccines against the new variants, those who are vaccinated should still take precautions such as mask-wearing, physical distancing, and avoiding indoor activities where possible. Six of the first eight people first identified with the UK variant B.1.1.
The length of quarantine should be based on the latest data available on the period of contagion for different variants.
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