In the past two weeks, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention classified the new strain commonly known as the “Delta” variant as a variant of concern, and it’s being watched for on the local level. The state performs whole genome sequencing on positive tests that show up in vaccinated individuals and reinfected ones. Door County Public Health Manager Susan Powers says they are also paying attention to the variant, which has caused case upticks in India and the United Kingdom.

With the 38 cases in the state, the variant is believed to be easier spread than other variants and also believed to not respond to convalescent plasma treatments that are used to treat ill patients. Powers says that to date, it’s believed the COVID19 vaccines are effective against the Delta variant, and encouraged people to get their shots.