(AP) — Hawaiʻi has detected a new COVID-19 variant in the islands, one that first emerged in South Africa. The state Department of Health says the virus was found in an Oahu resident with no travel history. The virus has the technical name B.1.351. Some tests suggest the variant may be less susceptible to antibody drugs or antibody-rich blood from COVID-19 survivors, both of which help people fight off the virus. But vaccination offers some hope. Acting State Epidemiologist Sarah Kemble says a study conducted in South Africa where the variant was predominant showed the Johnson & Johnson vaccine was effective in preventing serious disease.
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