KYW Newsradio's Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.
By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor
PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — There is a great deal of talk about mutated strains of COVID-19, but what does it mean?
When it comes to mutations, scientists have been expecting much of what we are seeing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said the B.1.1.7 variant first identified in the U.K. could eventually be the dominant U.S. strain.
It is already on track to becoming dominant in Florida, which has been less aggressive at encouraging mask-wearing and social distancing.
The next two strains raising concern are those first identified South Africa, the B.1.351, and from Brazil , the P.1.
The biggest concern at the present time is that they spread easier, and that means more quickly as we race against time.
The other concern is that it appears already having COVID-19 might not protect a person as well as the vaccines.
This is why we are in a race against time in getting people vaccinated.
