The first reported United States case of the Covid-19 variant seen in the United Kingdom was discovered in Colorado, Governor Jared Polis announced Tuesday.
The coronavirus variant was found in a man in his 20s who is isolated southeast of Denver and has no travel history, state health officials said.
The Colorado State Laboratory confirmed the virus variant and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was notified.
UK scientists believe the new variant of the virus is more contagious than previously identified strains of SARS-CoV-2. The vaccines now being administered are believed to be effective against the variant, Colorado health officials said in a news release.
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Public health officials are investigating other potential cases and monitoring contracts to determine the spread of the variant throughout the state.
“There is a lot we don’t know about this new variant of Covid-19, but UK scientists are warning the world that it is significantly more contagious. The health and safety of Coloradans is our top priority, and we will be closely monitoring this case, as well as all Covid-19 indicators, very closely, ”Polis said.
The Polis and state health officials are expected to address the public Wednesday.
The discovery of the new variant prompted the CDC to issue new rules on Christmas Day for travelers arriving in the US from the UK, requiring them to show proof of a negative Covid-19 test.
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