Hawai’i State Lab detects COVID-19 variant

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January 25, 2021, 12:29 PM HST

The Hawai’i Department of Health State Laboratories Division has detected the SARS-CoV-2 variant L452R. This COVID-19 strain was first discovered in Denmark in March 2020. It is now found in more than a dozen US states.

Science has not shown the L452R variant to spread faster or pose a greater threat than other COVID-19 species, but there is concern as it has been linked to a growing number of cases in California, including several major outbreaks.

“It is common to find variants of viruses such as COVID-19. Some involve greater risks than others. said Dr. Sarah Kemble, acting state epidemiologist. “We are also working with our colleagues in other states the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on the characteristics of this particular variant. “

State Laborator of the DepartmentIes Division began genome sequencing in June in search of potential COVID-19 variants. It now examines 75 specimens per week and has developed a testing algorithm to find variants as soon as possible after arrival.

The B.1.1.7 variant first found in the UK and the B.1.351 variant first found in South Africa both have improved portability. Neither B.1.1.7 nor B.1.351 has been found in Hawai’i.

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“Hawai’i is not immune to new species,” said health director Dr. Elizabeth Char. “The arrival of the L452R reminds us to wear masks, maintain physical distance from people outside of our immediate households, and avoid crowds. These safe practices in conjunction with COVID-19 vaccines will help us stop the spread. “

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Regardless of which COVID-19 variants are found in Hawai’i, residents and visitors can play an important role in slowing the transmission of the virus. This includes:

  • Wear masks when leaving home
  • Limiting interactions with people outside of immediate households
  • Keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet from each other
  • Wash hands for 20 seconds
  • Getting the COVID-19 vaccine if it is eligible and the vaccine is available (and continuing these safety precautions even after vaccination)

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