A new COVID-19 variant is in Mecklenburg County. Here’s what it means for you

Why it matters: The B.1.1.7 variant is believed to be more contagious than other variants. As a result, COVID safety measures like masks and social distancing are even more important.

• So far this new variant hasn’t proven to be more severe. But, the more people get infected, the greater strain our hospitals will feel.

Of note: Current COVID-19 vaccines are still expected to be effective in protecting against B.1.1.7.

Driving the news: The B.1.1.7 variant is the result of a COVID-19 virus mutation. Respiratory viruses are constantly mutating, and COVID has been mutating all along, Atrium’s Dr. Katie Passaretti told reporters on Monday.

• “Until now the mutations have been relatively minor and haven’t significantly changed how easily spread (or) how severe the disease is,” she said. “What we’re coming to now, is that these newer strains have more mutations and … are more easily spread.”
• Passaretti says it’s possible that there are slightly different COVID-19 strains each year that make booster shots or annual vaccines necessary, but it’s too early to know for sure.

Moving forward: It’s likely that we see more COVID-19 cases involving the new variant in the Charlotte-area. Additional new coronavirus variants are also a possibility.

• “Anything that’s harder to control that has the potential to increase cases or evade the things we’re dong to prevent spread … that certainly has the potential to prolong the pandemic and cause longer term impact,” Passaretti said.

Be smart: Keep observing the three Ws: wash your hands, wear a mask, wait six feet. Also, consider thicker masks for when you do have to leave the house.

• The CDC recommends masks with at least two layers.

Get the full picture: The latest of coronavirus in Charlotte