Colorado Reports 1st Cases Of P.1 Variant In Boulder County

BOULDER COUNTY, CO — The first cases of the COVID-19 P.1 variant have been discovered in Colorado, public health officials announced Tuesday.

Two Boulder County residents tested positive for the variant, according to The Centers for Disease Control and Response, which notified the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment of the cases.

State public health officials are investigating other possible exposures.

The P.1 variant was first reported among Brazilian travelers who arrived in Japan, and since then, 189 cases have been reported in 25 states across the U.S.

Early research shows the variant may spread more easily and quickly than the common SARS CoV-2, according to the CDC.

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"Coloradans should continue to wear masks, practice physical distancing, wash their hands frequently, and get vaccinated when it is their turn," the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment said in a news release. "These are our best tools for preventing the spread of this virus, no matter the strain.

"Early research suggests that the currently authorized vaccines are effective against known variants, though perhaps to varying degrees depending on the strain. Experts stress that getting vaccinated can provide significant protection against transmission and severe illness from COVID-19."

>> More information about how to make a vaccination appointment in Colorado can be found here.