It’s been over one year since the coronavirus pandemic hit America, and now a new variant of the COVID-19 has arrived in Florida’s Orange County.
Florida Sunset
The UK variant of COVID-19, which is said to be more contagious than other strains, was found in two people visiting Orange County, where Orlando and Walt Disney World are, from Broward and Seminole counties, according to WKMG-TV. Overall, 92 cases of the COVID-19 variant are in the Sunshine State.
Dr. Raul Pino, the Director of the Florida Department of Health in Orange County, said that doesn’t necessarily mean that the UK variant is spreading across the Orlando area. “That is not to say that variant must be out there because it’s everywhere, but we don’t have any concrete evidence that it is in county residents at this point. We have not detected it. It doesn’t mean that it’s not there,” he stated.
Florida Palm Trees
Other variants, including those from South Africa and Brazil have yet to be found in Florida. However, the South African variant was found in South Carolina.
Flight from Orlando
Though the UK variant of the coronavirus is more contagious, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said there is no evidence that this strain causes more severe illness or increased risk of death. How can you protect yourself while in Orlando? Wear a mask, wash your hands frequently with warm soap and water, avoid touching your face, and keep a safe distance from others, especially while at Walt Disney World.
Timmy the Dino in a face mask
Of course, Disney World requires guests to wear a face covering at all times except for when actively eating or drinking and distanced from other people. That rule even applies to people who have already received the COVID-19 vaccine. However, rules will be different for Disney World’s water parks when Blizzard Beach reopens in March.
Disney dogs mask
As the coronavirus pandemic continues and things develop in Florida, we’ll be sure to let you know, especially when changes may impact Disney World.
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The post NEWS: A More Contagious COVID Variant Was Found in Florida’s Orange County first appeared on the disney food blog.