We all know about the Covid-19 coronavirus. It has been in a pandemic state since March 2020 and has possibly been in the United States earlier than that as well. With the rising numbers and people getting infected, Covid-19 has mutated into a more dangerous strain than before.

The new strain is labeled as B.1.1.7 and spreads quicker than before. A faster spread of the virus leads to more cases. This can also lead to an increase of deaths and hospitalizations in the coming months. It’s actually predicted that the new strain will become the dominant strain of Coronavirus in the U.S. by March, which would put the pandemic in a worse state.

The B.1.1.7 strain started in the United Kingdom and somehow traveled to other countries, including the United States. All viruses have the possibility of mutating, it’s not uncommon for this to happen; however, scientists say with the increase of numbers, the virus could possibly mutate into an even worse strain.

Besides the new strain spreading quicker, there is another significant difference between the 2 strains. With the previous strand of Covid, a person infected would produce antibodies, protecting them against catching the virus again. With the new strain, it is possible to catch the virus twice.

There was a case in the United Kingdom of a person catching the B.1.1.7 strain of Coronavirus after previously catching the old strain months earlier. This leads to evidence that the bodily-produced antibodies might not be able to protect against the mutated virus.

In terms of the vaccine, it should still work to fight against both strains of Coronavirus. The genetic differences aren’t far off from each other. Since this virus is capable of spreading faster, health officials are working towards pushing the vaccine out as quickly as they can in the order they decided on.

The cases of Covid are still on the rise. Keeping your mask on for the consideration of not only yourself but for others is critical. Health officials are encouraging people to stay home now more than ever.

The best way to protect against the virus is to protect yourself from any possible contact. If that means FaceTiming friends rather than going to a party then that’s a sacrifice that must be made.

If you do happen to go out, wear a mask. Wash your hands. Sanitize objects.

It is everybody’s job to protect themselves and others against the spread of the virus. Even if you don’t feel sick at the moment doesn’t mean you aren’t a carrier of the virus. It’s better to be safe than sorry.