U.K. COVID-19 variant confirmed in Benton Co; first case in eastern WA

TRI-CITIES, Wash.-The first case of the UK variant of COVID-19 east of the Cascades has been detected in Benton County.

The Washington State Health Department confirmed the case through genome-typing and notified the local health district.

“While there is cause for concern, there is no need for alarm,” said Dr. Amy Person, health officer for Benton, Franklin and Klickitat counties. “Although we do have confirmation the variant is in the community, the identification of the B.1.1.7. variant in a specimen indicates a local presence, but not the local prevalence.”

Washington State conducts sequencing on less than 3% of all positive specimens.

“Evidence has shown that the UK Variant is more contagious,” Dr. Person stated. “However, it is inconclusive at this time if the strain is more deadly,” she continued. “The best way to stop virus mutations is to stop spread. Fortunately, we have excellent tools in our toolbox including three vaccines that are highly effective against this strain, and proven methods to stop spread including masking, hand hygiene, distancing, limiting gatherings, and decreasing time around other outside our household.”