In this archive photo from June 30, 2020, Governor Gavin Newsom removes his mask before giving an update during a visit to Pittsburg, California.
Rich Pedroncelli | AP
California health officials have identified the state’s first case of the new and more infectious strain of Covid-19, which was first discovered in the UK, Governor Gavin Newsom said on Wednesday.
The patient was in the southern part of the state, Newsom told White House coronavirus consultant Dr. Anthony Fauci during a question and answer session broadcast live on Facebook.
“I don’t think Californians should think this is a strange thing. This is expected,” Fauci told Newsom.
On Tuesday, Colorado health officials confirmed the first case of the coronavirus B.1.1.7 variant in the country. During a news conference on Wednesday, Colorado Governor Jared Polis said the state was investigating a second potential case of the new strain.
This is a developing story. Check back later for updates.