The emerging variants the CDC is closely monitoring have mutations in the virus genome that alter the characteristics and cause the virus to act differently in ways that are significant to public health (i.e., causes more severe disease, spreads more easily between humans, requires different treatments, changes the effectiveness of current vaccines). It is important to understand that genetic mutations are expected, and some variants can spread and become predominant while others subside.

As of February 14, 2021:

• 40 states had reported – 1173 cases of the B.1.1.7 variant
• 8 states had reported – 17 cases of the B.1.351 variant
• 2 states had reported – 3 cases of the P.1 variant

As we continue to journey through this daunting pandemic, it is great to know that the CDC is watching closely, and that the experts and researchers are trying to reign these variants in! The data is interesting and as more states report, the numbers will obviously change so check back periodically to see how your state is doing.

Stay the course, stay well, mask up, get vaccinated, and stay tuned!