Delta Variant reported in Dickinson County

KINGSFORD — The Dickinson-Iron District Health Department reported on Aug. 9 it was notified that genetic testing had confirmed that the B.1.617.2 variant of the virus that causes Covid-19 was detected in a positive case within Dickinson County. 

The department said that this variant, commonly referred to as the Delta Variant, is concerning because it is associated with increased transmissibility. Compared to the standard SARS-CoV-2 virus, the B.1.617.2 variant is approximately 50 percent more transmissible, leading to faster spread of the virus and potentially increasing numbers of cases, hospitalizations, and deaths. 

“The presence of this particular variant is alarming because it is less responsive to our known treatment options, like monoclonal antibody treatments,” Ruth Manier, director of community health services said. “There are concerns about immunity protection from vaccinations and natural immunity following a Covid infection; this could possibly mean an increase in reinfections for those who have already experienced a Covid infection.” 

Additional public health efforts are required once the variant has been identified, to slow the spread within the community. 

“This is our fourth variant identified in our community,” Manier added. “Our concerns are for the health, safety, and wellbeing of our community. We are noticing that cases being identified are in a younger population. It is important to remember that we do not understand what the long-term consequences may be of experiencing an infection.”

The DIDHD added that to protect the community, residents all must continue working together to make an effort to get vaccinated and adhere to social distancing, mask-use, hand hygiene, avoiding large social gatherings, and other mitigation strategies.

The Dickinson-Iron District Health Department has extended vaccine eligibility to anyone over the age of 12. Adults over the age of 18 are eligible to schedule an appointment. Parents who are interested in scheduling an appointment for their 12- 17-year-old children should call DIDHD (906-774-9910 in Dickinson County and 265-2950 in Iron County) during normal business hours.

For more information on COVID, visit didhd.org, michigan.gov/coronavirus, or michigan.gov/COVIDVaccine.