Back in late June 2020, Houston was hit by its second COVID-19 wave, which was much more widespread than the first wave in March.

And during this larger outbreak, an exceptionally contagious strain of the virus which developed in another part of the world began to take over. 

In response, researchers began studying & comparing both strains against each other  to better understand why each resulted in such drastically different outcomes.    Through their research, they reached a troubling conclusion:  That since the pandemic began, a number of strains of the virus had reached Houston because of its ability to mutate over time.  So then how do protect ourselves and society going forward if vaccination readiness can’t keep pace with the virus’ ability to mutate?

 According to Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases, “What the evidence suggests so far, is that COVID-19’s viral transmission is now more enhanced than we previously have thought or experienced.” 

Before first being identified,  Houston saw an average daily total of 200 new COVID-19 patients.  It quickly rose to more than 2,400 per day since the mutated strain came to town.  

David Morens, a virologist at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, recently said that this change “may have implications for our ability to control it.”

He believes the virus may have found a way to get through certain barriers such as hand washing and social distancing.  

He said in an interview:  “Wearing masks, washing our hands, all those things are barriers to transmissibility or contagion, but as the virus becomes more contagious, it statistically is better at getting around those barriers…”

 And while terribly troubling, the encouraging word is that this second strain of the virus has not been found to be more lethal than the first.  And that by having antibodies in the bloodstream has been seen as effective as to protect someone as with the original strain.

Until medicine is confidently in front of the virus’ ability to mutate, the CDC recommends continued vigilance adhering with all public health & safety best practices:  

Maintain at least 6 feet social distancing from others at all times.  Continue to wash hands & face regularly and avoid touching one’s face, eyes, ears, nose and mouth.  Regularly wash off and wipe down hard surfaces with disinfectant.   Keep hand sanitizers available for us at all times at home, in the car and in bags and briefcases.   And most importantly, wear masks at all times whenever leaving the house.