New COVID variant confirmed in Lucas County case

TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) - A COVID variant first discovered in the United Kingdom has been detected in Lucas County.

The Toledo-Lucas County Health Department was notified by the Ohio Health Department that several recent cases have been associated with a SARS-COV-2 variant of concern, specifically the B.1.1.7 variant first detected in the United Kingdom.

The CDC said the B.1.1.7 variant has shown evidence of increased transmissibility and a potential increase in disease severity.

Currently, there are 128 known cases of B.1.1.7 in Ohio. At this time, ODH has not recommended any additional control measures.

All three vaccines available in Lucas County have shown evidence they protect against variants, including B.1.1.7.

Starting on Monday, all Ohioans aged 16 and older will be eligible to receive COVID-19 Vaccination. Eligible individuals can visit the Health Department’s website to schedule an appointment www.lucascountyhealth.com/covidvaccine.