Viruses are constantly changing, and this includes SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. These genetic variations occur over time and can lead to the emergence of new variants that may have different characteristics.
Several COVID-19 variants have been found in Mid-Michigan Health Department’s (MMDHD) jurisdiction (Clinton, Gratiot, and Montcalm counties) over the course of the pandemic. This includes the following variants: B.1.1.7, B.1.351, B.1429, P.1, and most recently, the new B.1.617 variant.
