Public Health France PRESS RELEASE - new variant18 Mar 2021 17:26
https://solidarites-sante.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/cp_nouveau_variant_15-03-2021.pdf
We have viewed press reports, the official press release has slightly more info.
Expecting an update tomorrow hopefully, - Google translation follows,
Paris, March 15, 2021
Public Health France PRESS RELEASE
Following the identification by sequencing, in Brittany, of a new variant (derived from
Clade 20C), the health authorities put in place surveillance measures and
necessary support.
A new variant (derived from Clade 20C) has been detected as part of a cluster in the center
hospitalier of Lannion, in the Côtes d´Armor.
On March 13, 79 cases were identified, including 8 cases
carriers of the variant, confirmed by sequencing.
Based on the preliminary analysis of the mutations of this variant and the clinical observations and
of carrier patients, the health authorities believe that it is reasonable to classify this
variant under surveillance, that is to say in the VUI category (variant under investigation) of the WHO
especially due to the observation of several patients with typical symptoms
suggesting infection with SARS-CoV-2 but a negative RT-PCR test result on
nasopharyngeal samples and for which the diagnosis could be made by serology or
performing RT-PCR on deep respiratory samples.
The first analyzes of this new variant do not allow us to conclude either to a seriousness or to
increased transmissibility compared to the historical virus. In-depth investigations are in progress
course, in order to better understand this variant and its impact. Experiments will also have
in order to determine how this variant reacts to vaccination and to the antibodies developed during
previous infections. Finally, the international authorities are informed of the discovery of this
variant.
Viruses are constantly evolving by mutations in their genome. Concerning specifically the
VUI variant derived from clade 20C, a system for detecting and monitoring possible cases
infection or carriage is set up by Public Health France and the National Centers of
Reference, in conjunction with analytical laboratories. This device concerns a geographical area
including Lannion, Guingamp, Saint-Brieuc and Morlaix. The general directorate of health
also notified all health establishments and health professionals in order to
raise awareness about monitoring this variant.
Finally, as a precaution, the local authorities, Prefectures and ARS, are stepping up the measures
to slow down the transmission of the virus, for example by speeding up vaccination,
recalling the importance of barrier gestures or limiting gatherings.
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