Second variant of COVID discovered in Wisconsin

A second variant strain of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, has been identified in Wisconsin. This variant strain differs from variant B.1.1.7, which was first identified in the state in January.

The newest variant, referred to as B.1.351, was first discovered circulating in South Africa, in samples dating back to October 2020. According to epidemiologic and modeling studies, researchers have found that this new strain, similar to B.1.1.7, spreads more rapidly and easily than the original strain of SARS-CoV-2.

It is not yet known if this variant has any impact on disease severity. There is some evidence to suggest that this variant may affect how some antibodies respond to the virus. Experts expect that all three currently authorized vaccines effectively reduce the risk of COVID-19, for all the circulating variants.

All viruses, including the virus that causes COVID-19, change through mutation.