U.K. variant drives Minn. cases to 12th in U.S.

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A viral variant has become a dominant source of COVID-19 in Minnesota, causing as many as 65% of new infections and driving the state's case and hospitalization rates to some of the highest in the U.S.

A sampling of patients infected with the corona­virus that causes COVID-19 has identified 943 with the B.1.1.7 variant, which proved when it was found in England to be 50% more contagious and cause a 64% higher death rate.

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Minnesota has become an epicenter of pandemic activity this month — ranking 12th highest among U.S. states for its new infection rate in the latest White House COVID-19 report and 15th for its hospitalization rate. Michigan and northeastern states also are seeing increases. Minnesota, on the other hand, ranked 36th for its lower rate of COVID-19 deaths in the seven-day period ending March 26. Health officials hope that's a reflection of an aggressive vaccination campaign that has protected people most at risk.

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Minnesota on Thursday reported 2,140 more SARS-CoV-2 infections — the first daily count above 2,000 since Jan. 10. That raised the state's total to 521,667 known infections. The state also reported 12 more COVID-19 deaths. The number of Minnesota hospital beds filled with COVID-19 patients increased on Wednesday to 435 — including 105 patients in intensive care. Hospitals are reporting younger patients compared with late last year, though, and a decline in deaths.

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https://www.startribune.com/u-k-variant-drives-minn-cases-to-12th-in-u-s/600041261/