Public Health England (PHE) on Sunday said that six cases of the Brazilian coronavirus variant have been identified in the UK for the first time.

The variant, known as P.1, was first detected circulating in Manaus, northern Brazil.

"We have identified these cases thanks to the UK's advanced sequencing capabilities which means we are finding more variants and mutations than many other countries and are therefore able to take action quickly,” Dr Susan Hopkins, PHE strategic response director for Covid-19 and NHS Test and Trace Medical Advisor, said.

According to PHE, two of the cases are from one household in South Gloucestershire, with a history of travel to Brazil.

Two additional people in the Gloucestershire household have tested positive, but gene sequencing has not yet confirmed if they have the P.1 variant. 

The third case is currently unlinked and an investigation is underway to find the individual as they did not fill in their test registration card so follow-up details are not available, PHE said.

Three more cases have been identified in Scotland. 

PHE said it is now tracing all passengers on a return flight from Sao Paulo, Brazil - Swiss Air flight LX318 via Zurich landing in London Heathrow on February 10, adding that those returning to the UK should have immediately quarantined at home for 10 days.

(With input from agencies)