The new variant of the coronavirus found in the U.K. is now in Texas. Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo tweeted late this morning health officials had confirmed a case of the new virus, believed to be more contagious than the one which caused the pandemic. Hidalgo calls it a disturbing development and encourages people to change their behavior by wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and good hygiene.
“The fact that this person had no travel history suggests this variant is already circulating in Texas,” said Dr. John Hellerstedt, DSHS commissioner. “Genetic variations are the norm among viruses, and it’s not surprising that it showed up here given how rapidly it spreads. This should make us all redouble our commitment to the infection prevention practices that we know work: masks any time you’re around people you don’t live with, social distancing, and personal and environmental hygiene.”
Other cases of the U.K. strain have been reported in Colorado, New York, and California.