ORLANDO, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health reported it found evidence of the first case of a new COVID-19 variant in the state.
The patient is a man in his 20s in Martin County, according to the Health Department. It said he has no history of recent travel.
READ: Will COVID-19 vaccines work on the new coronavirus variant?
Florida has evidence of the first identified case of the UK COVID-19 variant in Martin County. The individual is a male in his 20s with no history of travel. The Department is working with the CDC on this investigation. We encourage all to continue practicing COVID-19 mitigation.
— Florida Dept. Health (@HealthyFla) January 1, 2021
The Health Department said it is investigating the case with assistance from the Centers for Disease Control.
Colorado announced the first case of the new variant in the United States on Tuesday, followed by California with the second known case Wednesday.
“I really encourage people stay away from crowds,” said Dr. Dena Grayson. “Stay home. Don’t gather, especially don’t gather indoors, that’s really dangerous. We know that this virus spreads through the air.”
READ: California has nation’s 2nd confirmed case of virus variant
Experts have said they expect the current approved COVID-19 vaccines to remain effective against the variant strain.
Cox Media Group
