A sixth person in the UK who tested positive for a Brazilian coronavirus “variant of concern” has been found.

The COVID-19 variant, first seen in the city of Manaus, is thought to spread more rapidly than the original virus and to be more capable of evading existing vaccines.

In total, six cases of the P1 coronavirus variant have been confirmed – three in England and three in Scotland.

All five of the previously identified cases are linked to travel from Brazil to the UK.

Earlier this week, the health secretary told MPs that “five of these six people quarantined at home as they were legally required to do”.

Matt Hancock added: “Unfortunately one of these six cases completed a test but didn’t successfully complete the contact details.”

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