UK and South Africa COVID-19 variants detected in DC residents, according to DC Health

WASHINGTON (FOX 5 DC) - DC Health has announced that two variants of COVID-19, the strains known to be widespread in the UK and South Africa, have been detected in D.C. residents.

Director of DC Health Dr. LaQuandra Nesbitt says there are three cases of the UK strain and one case of the South African strain.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: 2 UK variant COVID-19 cases identified in Maryland

She also reminded reporters at a press conference on Thursday that not every person is tested for the variants of COVID-19.

Dr. Nesbitt says further details are not known at this time, but encourages residents to continue washing their hands, social distancing and wearing a mask.

DC Health also gave an update on vaccines in the District, saying that next week's vaccine allotment is up approximately 50% from two weeks ago. DC Health expects to have approximately 40% of seniors vaccinated by the end of this week and 70% vaccinated by the end of February.

Photo: DC Health

In early March, DC Health says the registration process will be updated to allow individuals to sign up to be alerted when there is a vaccine available to them.

Download the FOX 5 DC News App for Local Breaking News and Weather

The District currently has a 5.2% COVID test positivity rate and a daily case rate of 23.4.

This is a developing story. Check back for more updates.