Coronavirus Variant

Federal data show that Florida has more COVID-19 cases tied to newer, more transmissible strains of the coronavirus than any other state.

However, the B.1.1.7 variant remains more contagious than original strains of the virus, according to the study, published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases.

The variant known as B.1.1.7, which is more easily spread, was first identified in England last fall. Since then, it has spread quickly in the U.S.

The seven-day average of new cases is slightly higher than during the previous week and 20% above two weeks ago, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University.

Departmenr of Health epidemiologist Alvina Chu says Orange’s two B.1.351 variant cases were members of the same family with no reported travel.

Dr. Michael Lauzardo, UF Emerging Pathogens Institute deputy director, wants to answer a different question with this new trial: Will vaccines prevent people from spreading the virus to others?

The health system's genomics director, Dr. Wesley Walker, says saliva samples from patients are being collected and sequenced for known variants.

The variants, commonly known by country of origin, have been found to be more transmissible than the original strain of the virus. The more prevalent B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily and might be more deadly.

Primarily restricting vaccine access to older Floridians puts essential workers at risk and gives variants a chance to gain a foothold in the community, says infectious disease expert Dr. Glenn Morris.

UCF officials said the student was isolated after testing positive and contact tracing measures were taken.