Multiple COVID-19 variants discovered in Wyoming

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — The Wyoming Department of Health has announced multiple coronavirus variants were discovered in Wyoming over the past several months.

The Wyoming Public Health Laboratory recently analyzed genetic sequencing from multiple positive samples collected from residents since November and found at least 40 cases involved the variant found in the U.K., more than 40 cases combined involved two variants found in California, and one case involved the variant found in South Africa, the Wyoming Tribune Eagle reported Tuesday.

“Because this is far from a comprehensive review of all positive patient samples, the true number and geographical spread of variants of concern in Wyoming is likely greater than what has been identified,” State Epidemiologist Dr. Alexia Harrist said.

Harrist said it is likely that all four of the variants have represented some of the virus transmission in Wyoming over the past several months, raising concerns because the variants have been shown to transmit more easily between people.

“The best way for people to protect themselves from getting sick is to get a COVID-19 vaccine, which are available to the general public now throughout Wyoming,” Harrist said. “We still also recommend staying home when you are sick, avoiding large gatherings, and wearing masks in most public settings.”