OUTAGAMIE COUNTY, WI (WTAQ) – Outagamie County Public Health is reporting that lab tests have confirmed that coronavirus strain B.1.351, first identified in South Africa, has made its first known appearance in the area. This is the second identified case in Wisconsin.
According to a press release, the individual tested positive for COVID-19 in early March and has already completed the subsequent isolation period.
The release also noted that in Wisconsin, cases of B.1.351 are identified through ongoing surveillance and whole genome sequencing, routine practice since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. All viruses, including the virus that causes COVID-19, change through mutation, and new variants of the virus are expected to occur over time.
“The presence of the variant highlights the need to remain vigilant about the presence of COVID-19 in our communities and continue important mitigation strategies such as washing your hands, staying home when you are sick, wearing a mask and social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19,” said Natalie Vandeveld, Outagamie County Public Health Officer/Manager.
More information regarding the COVID-19 variants can be found on the Wisconsin Department of Health Services website.
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