Updated February 9, 2021
Prevention reports on a highly infectious COVID-19 variant that was first detected in the U.K. is now rapidly spreading in the U.S. The variant, B.1.1.7, has been detected in at least 34 states and is expected to continue circulating. The article quotes Thomas A. Russo, MD, professor of medicine and chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases, who said “only testing will tell if you have this variant.” He added that “it’s likely we’ll have additional COVID-19 variations in the future” and we’ll have to adjust our response accordingly — so when you have the chance to get the vaccine, it’s crucial that you do so to protect yourself and those around you. The article was picked up by other media outlets as well.