LINCOLN, Nebraska (KOLN) – The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the Nebraska Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) have confirmed the first known cases of COVID-19 in Brazil, known as P.1, in the state. Two cases have been identified in Douglas County. Investigations are ongoing and ongoing. Variant P.1 has spread to the United States and is probably more contagious, according to DHHS.
According to DHHS, test platforms such as Test Nebraska and others will continue to produce a “positive” result for variant P.1 (and other variants). Vaccinations are expected to remain effective.
DHHS and NPHL have worked to increase sequencing capabilities within the state. Higher sequencing volumes in the state began in January, and NPHL currently has the capacity to sequence more than 100 copies per week.
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