Press Release: DHS and Laboratory Partners Identify Second Case of Variant Strain B.1.1.7 of SARS-CoV-2 in Wisconsin
This bulletin is being sent to local health officers, tribal health directors, public health nurses and staff, and key DPH staff.
On February 6, Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) and laboratory partners identified a second case of variant strain B.1.1.7 of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, in Wisconsin.
This variant, referred to as B.1.1.7, was first discovered to be circulating widely in England during November and December of 2020. The first case of variant strain B.1.1.7 in Wisconsin was detected on January 12, 2021. Based on epidemiologic and modeling studies, researchers believe that this new strain spreads more rapidly and easily than the original strain of SARS-CoV-2. There is some evidence emerging that the new strain may cause an increased risk of death.
“It is concerning that we have identified a second case of a variant that spreads more easily. We are able to sequence a small proportion of tests collected, which means, in reality, there are likely many more cases of this variant in Wisconsin,” said Dr. Ryan Westergaard, the Chief Medical Officer in the DHS Bureau of Communicable Diseases. “Wisconsinites must continue to be vigilant to stop the spread of COVID-19 by wearing masks, staying home, washing their hands, and getting vaccinated when they are able.”
The full press release is available here.
Communications Resources Available
Talking points have been developed to support local and tribal health departments respond to questions and are posted on PCA Portal COVID-19 Resources under the Local and Tribal Health Departments topic.
The DHS media team is available should you want to refer inquires to DHS for additional context or scientific expertise about the variant. Refer questions to DHSMedia@dhs.wisconsin.gov or 608-266-1683.
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