LDH confirmed the state’s first two identified cases of the SARS-CoV-2 virus known as the Brazil P.1 variant.
The P.1 cases were detected in individuals in Regions 1 (Greater New Orleans area) and 5 (Southwest Louisiana). Neither individual reported a history of travel, and neither individual had received the COVID-19 vaccines.
Although these are the first reported cases of the P.1 variant in Louisiana, it is likely that there are additional undetected cases circulating. LDH stresses that getting the COVID-19 vaccine can also help prevent new variants from emerging, saying every infection that is prevented means the virus has one less chance to mutate.
