Michigan identifies first case of COVID-19 variant that originated in UK

WASHTENAW COUNTY, Mich. – The first Michigan case of the UK variant of COVID-19 was identified in a woman who lives in Washtenaw County.

The person who contracted the virus had traveled to the United Kingdom, where this variant originated.

Close contacts have been identified and are in quarantine.

At this time, two new cases have been identified from close contact with the person, but it is not known if they are infected with this variant.

The UK variant, also known as B.1.1.7. is believed to be more contagious, but is not believed to cause a more serious outcome for the patient.

Currently, the variant has been identified in 16 other states, including Indiana.

This is the only case known in Michigan.

Residents are encouraged to get vaccinated for COVID-19, wear a mask around others, maintain a social distance of 6 feet, and wash your hands often.

For the latest information, visit Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.