U.K. COVID-19 variant widespread in Minnesota

A more infectious variant of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is "widespread" in Minnesota, with a recent batch of genomic sequencing tests from one lab finding it in more than half of samples.

State health officials said the emergence of the B.1.1.7 variant underscores the need for mask-wearing, social distancing and vaccination, but doesn't necessarily mean there will be renewed restrictions on schools, businesses or social gatherings.

While 5% of variant-driven COVID-19 cases are resulting in hospitalizations, the hope is that there will be fewer severe outcomes and deaths because many of the most vulnerable Minnesotans have been vaccinated, state Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm said.

https://www.startribune.com/uk-covid-19-variant-widespread-in-minnesota/600037738/