The department of public health said Tuesday they were informed by the state of one person who tested positive for the U.K. coronavirus variant, B.1.1.7.
[Ads /]
B.1.1.7 is one of the so-called "variants of concern" and was found to be 40 to 80 percent more transmissible. It was first detected in the United Kingdom where it spread quickly and caused a significant increase in COVID-19 cases in the country.
"While cases are decreasing in Madera County, the discovery of this variant is concerning," Dr. Simon Paul, Madera County Public Health Officer, said in a press release.
Health officials are warning residents to continue practicing health and safety protocols, including wearing face masks and social distancing.
[Ads /]
Dr. Paul also encouraged people who were eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Last week, three cases of the U.K. coronavirus variant were also discovered in Fresno County.
RELATED: 3 people infected with U.K. coronavirus variant in Fresno County
3 people infected with U.K. coronavirus variant in Fresno County