'UK Variant' Of Coronavirus Is Spreading In Connecticut

CONNECTICUT — The coronavirus strain B.1.1.7, commonly known as the UK variant, has been detected in four additional patients in the state who recently tested positive for COVID-19. This brings the total number of confirmed cases of the mutant strain in Connecticut to eight, according to state health officials.

Two patients reside in New Haven, three in Oxford, and three in West Haven have all been confirmed with the new variant. Their ages range from 15 to 50. Two live in the same household.

Several of the cases had been tested through Griffin Hospital’s testing program between from Jan. 6 - 18. Later genomic sequencing by Griffin's laboratory partner, The Jackson Laboratory of Farmington, confirmed the presence of the UK variant.

Aside from the two cases who reside in the same home, there does not appear to be a link between these patients, nor does there appear to be a link with the other four previously identified cases, health officials report.

One patient remains in isolation and the others have completed their isolation periods. The Connecticut Department of Public Health has confirmed that one recently traveled to the United Arab Emirates and had contact with a person who tested positive there. Travel histories on the other cases are unknown at this time.

"This new strain, which is considered to be more easily transmitted, is spreading quickly throughout the world, and it’s highly likely that these are not the only eight cases in Connecticut. That is why it is so important that everyone continues taking precautions to prevent transmission of this disease," Gov. Ned Lamont said in a news release.

The UK variant is widely assumed to be associated with increased transmission and is associated with a steep rise in COVID-19 cases in the UK, according to state health officials. It is not, however, assumed to be more deadly nor is it expected that it will have a significant impact on vaccine effectiveness. Personal protective measures, such as mask wearing and distancing in public, will still limit the spread of the variant.

"The increasing presence of this new strain in Connecticut and reports of other new COVID strains circulating in the United States and other parts of the world should serve as a stark reminder that it is imperative that we continue to wear masks, social distance, practice good hand hygiene, and limit gatherings to the members of your immediate household," Acting Public Health Commissioner Deidre Gifford said in a statement. "It is also crucial that anyone experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or who has been in close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 get tested and self-quarantine while awaiting the results."

See also: A-List Celebrity Guest Stars In Connecticut Family's New Charity Video

• Outrage In Connecticut After U.S. Rep. Doubts Sandy Hook Shootings
• CT Red Zone Map: Latest Infection Rates, Update On School Cases