"New virus variants that spread more easily could lead to a rapid rise in COVID-19 cases," says the CDC.

He was referring to the public health measures you've no doubt heard about—but now must follow more than ever.

"These variants seem to spread more easily and quickly than other variants, which may lead to more cases of COVID-19.

"Rigorous and increased compliance with public health mitigation strategies, such as vaccination, physical distancing, use of masks, hand hygiene, and isolation and quarantine, will be essential to limiting the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and protecting public health.".

Or, in the words of the study: "Collectively, enhanced genomic surveillance combined with continued compliance with effective public health measures, including vaccination, physical distancing, use of masks, hand hygiene, and isolation and quarantine, will be essential to limiting the spread of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)," says the report.

"Strategic testing of persons without symptoms but at higher risk of infection, such as those exposed to SARS-CoV-2 or who have frequent unavoidable contact with the public, provides another opportunity to limit ongoing spread.".