According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a more highly transmissible variant of SARS-CoV-2, B.1.1.7, has been detected in 12 U.S. states, putting the country at risk for a rise in COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths. “The increased transmissibility of the B.1.1.7 variant warrants universal and increased compliance with mitigation strategies, including distancing and masking,” the article states. “Higher vaccination coverage might need to be achieved to protect the public.” (MMWR article, 1/15/21)
