New Variant of COVID-19 requires Diligence in Mitigation Actions

The Georgia Department of Public Health announced 19 cases of the COVID-19 variant B.1.1.7 present in Georgia. While no cases have been confirmed in District 2 counties yet, at least 30 other states have reported cases of the variant. The same measures used to prevent the spread of COVID-19 are recommended for this variant.  However, it is more important to follow these measures, as variant B.1.1.7 is more contagious. District 2 Public Health earnestly implores all residents to renew their efforts to control the spread of COVID-19 by following these steps.  Wear a mask or face covering.  Maintain a proper social distance of at least 6 feet.  Wash your hands frequently.  Avoid large gatherings.  Follow quarantine guidance if you are exposed.  Follow isolation guidance if you are sick or have tested positive for COVID-19.  Get a COVID-19 vaccination when you are eligible.  For more information about COVID-19, visit https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus  or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.