UK variant of COVID-19 found in Haldimand-Norfolk

A new variant of COVID-19 has been identified in Haldimand-Norfolk.

The Haldimand-Norfolk health unit did not say how many people tested positive or how the virus was transmitted.

In a press release, Dr. Shanker Nesathurai, the Medical Officer of Health, says “the appearance of this more easily-transmittable variant of COVID-19 in Haldimand-Norfolk underscores the importance of continuing to follow public health guidance. Continue to keep your distance from others, wear a mask, wash your hands frequently and avoid having close contact with those you don’t live with.”

Health officials say the UK variant appears to be more highly contagious.

On Friday the province reported 51 cases of the UK variant, B.1.1.7, in Ontario.