The Kanawha-Charleston Health Department announced Wednesday that the B.1.1.7 (UK) variant of the COVID-19 virus has been detected in Kanawha County. More than 140 cases of the UK variant have been detected across the state.
“Viruses naturally mutate over time, so it’s not surprising to find this variant in Kanawha County,” said Dr. Sherri Young, health officer and executive director of the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department. “However, this stresses the importance of maintaining our aggressive stance on vaccinating every person eligible to receive the vaccine.
“Fortunately, the same measures we have to slow the spread of COVID-19 work on this variant. We must continue to social distance, wear our masks, avoid crowded places and frequently wash our hands,” Dr. Young said.
The Kanawha-Charleston Health Department continues to provide COVID-19 vaccines by appointment. To schedule an appointment, call 304-348-8080. For more information on B.1.1.7 and other variants, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/transmission/variant-cases.html