KALAMAZOO, Mich. — Kalamazoo County has confirmed its first case of B.1.1.7, a variant of COVID-19.
The variant was diagnosed in an 80-year-old adult who had no recent travel history, according to the Kalamazoo County Government.
We’re told that contact tracing is being conducted to pinpoint that person’s close contacts.
The coronavirus variant is reportedly more contagious, but it is not believed to be any more dangerous than the normal strain. Experts say it has been found in 33 other states so far, and that it has been reported in Washtenaw and Wayne Counties as well.
“The identification of the B.1.1.7 variant in Kalamazoo County underscores the importance of our community wearing masks, social distancing, avoiding social gatherings, washing our hands, getting tested for COVID and getting vaccinated,” says Medical Director of Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Dr. William Nettleton.