Florida reports first case of coronavirus with more infectious UK strain

MARTIN COUNTY, FL – The Florida Department of Health reported Thursday evening that a Florida man has been infected with the most infectious strain of coronavirus first detected in the UK.

The UK variant’s case is unrelated to travel and involves a man in his 20s who lives in Martin County, officials said on Twitter on New Years Eve.

The FDOH is working with the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to investigate the case. Colorado health officials reported the first non-travel case to the United States on Tuesday. California reported the second confirmed case on Wednesday.

The World Health Organization reported that scientists had detected the British variant for the first time in September. Scientists are still looking for the variant, but there is a consensus that the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are still effective.

Public health officials are asking the public to wear a face mask, wash their hands often, and socially distance themselves.