Thread by @StLukesAnita

.@CDHidaho reporting recent wastewater samples submitted from the communities of Boise City, Eagle, and Garden City have identified the presence of the UK and California variants of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

.@CDHidaho says analysis of the samples revealed:
•Low levels of UK variant (B.1.1.7) detected in Boise City/wastewater. This variant accounted for 2% of the virus that was sequenced.
•Low levels of CA variant detected. Accounted for 2% of the virus that was sequenced.

.@CDHidaho says, "Though recent wastewater testing detected low levels of these 2 variants, ID has yet to confirm the presence of the variants among individuals who have tested positive... “yet, we have presumed the variants were circulating in Idaho."

This is important to know as many school districts, health districts and organizations are making decisions related to our decreased levels of COVID-19 activity. The UK variant is said to spread more quickly and easily. (56% more) cdc.gov/coronavirus/20…

.@CDHidaho says evidence of the 2 variants was detected in wastewater samples submitted on 1/25 and 1/30 – dates when Ada County COVID-19 case counts were higher than they have been in more recent weeks, making the samples much easier for the lab to sequence.

According to the @CityOfBoise, as #COVID19 cases continue to drop, it will become more difficult to sequence wastewater samples.

"The discovery of these variants among wastewater samples underscores the importance of continuing to practice all health and safety measures, including by those who are vaccinated against COVID-19." -@CDHidaho

You are still encouraged to, "avoid large gatherings, stay home when you are sick, get the COVID-19 vaccine when it's your turn. When used together/consistently, these measures will continue to protect us from COVID-19 & the new variants that are becoming more common." @CDHidaho

Here's the link to the @CityOfBoise's Wastewater Data: cityofboise.org/departments/ma…