“Detection of a variant that spreads more easily is a reminder that even though case rates are declining in Butte County, we must maintain our vigilance and continue using protective measures against coronavirus until most of the population has immunity,” Dr. Robert Bernstein, Butte County Public Health Officer said. “We cannot let down our guard.” Case investigation and contact tracing efforts have been initiated after the first report of the case, prior to variant testing. BCPH said the individual who contracted the virus is an adult. “Currently there is no indication that the vaccines or monoclonal antibody treatments are less effective on the B117 variant, however, there is evidence that his variant may be more severe,” BCPH said in a news release Monday.