Doctors are urging people in Oklahoma to be cautious of a new strain of COVID-19 that originated in the United Kingdom. The new strain has already been found in surrounding states like Texas, New Mexico and Colorado.

Health officials anticipate the new strain to spread largely in Oklahoma by March. OU Chief COVID Officer Dr. Dale Bratzler said he would not be surprised if the strain is already in Oklahoma because it is hard to prevent a virus from spreading across state lines.

Some COVID-19 tests have been sent to labs to be examined closer and suggested that mutations of the strain are present. Other medical leaders say there is still much to learn about the virus.

“The virus itself does not any worse disease that we know in humans,” said Dr. Kersey Winfree, SSM Health St. Anthony Chief Medical Officer.

Officials said following CDC guidelines and getting the vaccination when you are eligible are the best ways to stay safe.