U.K. COVID-19 Variant Detected By Baylor Researchers

  • Monday, January 11, 2021
Dr. Elizabeth Forrester prepping the samples
Dr. Elizabeth Forrester prepping the samples

Researchers in the Baylor School Molecular and Esoteric Lab say they have discovered what is likely the U.K. COVID-19 variant in the Chattanooga area. 

If their findings are confirmed by the state and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, it would be the first report of the variant in Tennessee.  It will also mean that the variant has been circulating in Southeast Tennessee since before it was formally identified in the U.S.

The U.K. variant, known as B.1.1.7 appears to spread more quickly but does not cause more serious or deadly illness than other COVID-19 variants.

Drs. Elizabeth Forrester and Dawn Richards were not actively looking for the variant but noticed it when data from a Dec. 8 test conducted in their lab appeared different from others.  A second sample was identified on Dec. 22, and a third on Jan. 2. 

Dr. Richards said their findings are supported by research from France, which is using the same method that the Baylor lab uses to screen for the U.K. variant on a national scale.   

The two researchers have been testing COVID-19 samples from regional providers since March 2020.  Dr. Forrester estimates that they have tested around 100,000 specimens to date. 


Living Well
The Lantern At Morning Pointe Of Collegedale Hosts Classic Car Show Fundraiser July 26
The Lantern At Morning Pointe Of Collegedale Hosts Classic Car Show Fundraiser July 26
  • 7/11/2025

The Lantern at Morning Pointe Alzheimer’s Center of Excellence, Collegedale invites the community to a fun-filled Classic Car Show on Saturday, July 26, from 1-5 p.m. at The Lantern at Morning ... more

No Cost Medical Services Offered In Bledsoe And Rhea Counties July 11-21
  • 7/10/2025

Anyone older than three years old with the ability to travel to Bledsoe County High School or Rhea County Middle School can receive medical, dental, and optometry services at no cost from July ... more

TVFCU Pledges Over $53,000 To The Erlanger Children’s Hospital Through Credit Union For Kids Program
  • 7/10/2025

Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union employees has committed over $53,000 to Credit Unions for Kids, a program supporting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. "This national initiative ... more