Cluster of COVID-19 variant of concern P.1 now contained in B.C.: Henry

Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry says a large cluster of cases of the COVID-19 variant known as P.1, which was first identified in Brazil, has been contained.

Henry has previously said the cluster was centred in Whistler and expressed concern about how contagious and potentially vaccine-resistant it is.

She says a small number of cases of the variant had spread beyond Whistler, but they are being watched closely.

The province confirmed 90 new COVID-19 cases involving variants of concern Thursday.

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  A physical distancing sign is pictured along the empty sidewalks in Whistler, B.C., Friday, May 15, 2020. Whistler Blackcomb is closed for the rest of the 2020-21 season following the announcement this week of a three-week 'circuit breaker' meant to slow the spread of COVID-19. (Jonathan Hayward / THE CANADIAN PRESS)