COVID-19 updates: Denton County confirms its first known case of the UK coronavirus variant – WFAA.com

The more infectious variant B.1.1.7 was found in an individual with no recent travel history outside of the U.S., according to DCPH.

This story will be continuously updated on Feb. 3 as new information is released.

Denton County Public Health announced its first known case of the UK coronavirus variant.

The more infectious variant B.1.1.7 was found in an individual with no recent travel history outside of the U.S., according to DCPH. No further information has been released at this time.

Even as Denton County ramps up the number of vaccinations this week, it is important to remember that everyone should continue to practice the CDC guidelines for social distancing, hand washing, and wearing masks, Denton County Judge Andy Eads said.

We know these practices work, even as different variants of the COVID-19 virus circulate around the globe. All individuals, with or without a vaccine, should continue following these basic steps to protect the health and safety of everyone.

The state's first known case of the more contagious variant of COVID-19 was confirmed on Jan. 7 in Harris County. The first North Texas case was confirmed on Jan. 16 in Dallas County.

Denton County health officials also announced 621 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19 Wednesday afternoon, of which 539 are currently active. The new cases bring the countywide total to 55,363.

Since tracking began in mid-March 2020, 325 residents have died and nearly 40,000 have recovered, according to health officials.

Dallas County reports record 50 deaths

Dallas County health officials reported 50 coronavirus-related deaths, its highest number of deaths since the beginning of the pandemic. Officials said a total of 2,230 residents have died since tracking began in mid-March 2020.

The deaths included men and women who range in age from 40 to over 100. All but 11 residents had underlying high-risk health conditions, officials reported.

As we have said, these will be our darkest months for deaths thus far, Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins said.

But if we make good choice, if we register to be vaccinated in as many places as were willing to drive to if we qualify under 1B, and if we wear our mask, maintain our distance, avoids crowds, including Super Bowl parties and forgo get-togethers, we will have a better March

Health officials also announced 1,356 cases of COVID-19, bringing the countywide total to 231,411 confirmed cases.

Health officials have confirmed four cases of the UK coronavirus variant in residents who have not traveled outside of the U.S.

Man in 30s among 14 deaths reported in Tarrant County

A Fort Worth man in his 30s is among the latest victims to die from COVID-19 in Tarrant County, officials said Wednesday.

Thirteen other deaths were also confirmed by health officials, bringing the county's death toll to 2,291.

The victims ranged from a Colleyville woman in her 90s to a Fort Worth woman in her 50s. Twelve of the people had underlying health conditions, officials said.

Tarrant County is, however, seeing a slight improvement in coronavirus-related hospitalizations. The dashboard shows there are currently 1,050 coronavirus patients. One month ago, there were 1,378 people hospitalized due to COVID-19, according to the county website.

A spokesperson for Cook Children's confirmed earlier in the day that there are currently 11 patients in the hospital with coronavirus. In a written statement, spokesperson Kim Brown urged parents and the community to avoid gathering Sunday for the Super Bowl.

"Lets keep this downward trend going," she said.

Dr. Anthony Fauci echoed a similar message. He said when it comes to Super Bowl parties during the pandemic, people should just lay low and cool it," the Associated Press reported.

He said Wednesday that now isnt the time to invite people over for watch parties because of the possibility that theyre infected with the coronavirus and could sicken others.

For a daily roundup of the latest news from around North Texas and beyond,sign up for the WFAA email newsletter.

View original post here:

COVID-19 updates: Denton County confirms its first known case of the UK coronavirus variant - WFAA.com