The arrival of the Delta variant in Utah has led to a rapid increase in the number of COVID-19 cases this summer. Numbers started to spike just as Utah’s new state epidemiologist, Dr. Leisha Nolen, assumed the position in early July. Nolen is well versed in the virus though. She has worked for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Alaska and was one of the first responders in Seattle when COVID-19 was initially identified at a nursing home.