With the new variants of the COVID-19 virus that have forced the U.K. into a lockdown, and how quickly the variant made its way over to U.S. soil, it seems like it’s just a matter of time before we start seeing it in Oklahoma.
Dr. Jared Taylor, State Epidemiologist, says that the new strain hasn’t had a “significant presence” in the Sooner State yet, but some initial test results have been identified that might be consistent with one of the new strains.
According to a statement from Taylor released by the state health department, a small group of samples obtained from Oklahomans were examined for the possibility of mutations, including those associated with the B.1.1.7 variant of COVID-19 (the ‘U.K strain’). These samples were specifically identified because of initial test results that could be consistent with the ‘U.K. strain.’
Taylor says the results aren’t definitive, because the sequencing work was done in a research setting, not fully consistent with the approach advocated by the CDC for tracking the B.1.1.7 or other variants. Still, the results suggest that mutations were present in several of them, including one that matched the profile of the B.1.1.7 strain.
Regardless, state epidemiologists speculate that the ‘U.K. strain’ is likely already present and circulating in Oklahoma, as it has already been detected in other states with local transmission. This strain is more transmissible than the strain that has been in the U.S. today, and will likely spread faster.
“We’re currently taking steps to track and identify any new strains,” Taylor said. “Right now, Oklahoma does not have a regular, systematic surveillance process in place for identifying new strains. Doing so requires sequencing of the viral genome, which is an involved process and isn’t routine.”
Taylor says they have a communication out to labs to submit any suspicious samples for further investigation and will begin further surveillance efforts soon given the likelihood that one of the new COVID-19 variants has made, or will eventually make its way, to Oklahoma.
“Because the ‘U.K. strain’ is more transmissible, it is more important than ever that Oklahomans take precautions to protect themselves and others,” Taylor says. “Limit your exposure to people outside your own household and follow the three W’s: wear a mask, wash your hands and watch your distance.”
As of right now, there is no evidence to suggest that the COVID-19 vaccines currently in production won’t be effective against new strains of COVID-19 — so the state plans to continue its progress through the vaccine distribution plan.
OSDH will continue to monitor for new strains and will keep the public updated on new information as it becomes available.
