12 Delta variant cases reported in Orange County, likely to become predominant strain, health official says

The Delta variant of COVID-19 has been traced to a dozen infected people, and will likely become the predominant strain here, said Dr. Raul Pino, the local state health officer.

The variant, like other mutated strands of the virus, is highly transmissible but until today hadn’t been confirmed in cases in Orange County. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention considers the variant to be one of concern.

“We have the perfect tool: Let’s get vaccinated,” Pino said.

It’s also likely that the variant is here in higher numbers than are reported, as only a fraction of Florida’s positive COVID-19 tests are investigated for variant cases.

It’s unknown what condition the patients are in, and if they have a history of travel.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

rygillespie@orlandosentinel.com, shudak@orlandosentinel.com

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