LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) – The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Nebraska Public Health Lab (NPHL) have confirmed the first known cases of the Brazilian variant of COVID-19, known as P.1, in the state. Two cases have been identified in Douglas County. Investigations are ongoing and ongoing. The P.1 variant is spreading across the United States and is probably more contagious, according to DHHS.
According to DHHS, testing platforms such as Test Nebraska and others will still produce a “positive” result for the P.1 variant (and other variants). Vaccinations are expected to remain effective.
DHHS and NPHL have worked to increase sequencing capabilities within the state. Larger volumes of in-state sequencing began in January and NPHL currently has the capacity to sequence more than 100 samples per week.
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