Omi-Update

      Back in 2019, the Coronavirus was a newly discovered viral disease that did not seem to strike the attention of many. It wasn’t until March of 2020 that this “so-called” insignificant common cold-like illness became much more than just that. Our entire world went into an immediate lockdown which sent school districts into turmoil, shut down businesses permanently, and wreaked havoc on almost every aspect of our daily lives. After experiencing almost two years of a consecutively dangerous disease, over time, there have been strikes of newly formed variants. First, the surge of the Delta Variant struck in the summer of 2021. And, more recently, a new surge of Omicron. 

     As you most likely know, Omicron is the newest variant strand of COVID-19. Here’s all you need to know about Omicron. According to the CDC, “Current vaccines are expected to protect against severe illness, hospitalizations, and deaths due to infection with the Omicron variant. However, breakthrough infections in people who are fully vaccinated are likely to occur. With other variants, like Delta, vaccines have remained effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalizations, and death.” This recent medical crisis is an essential reminder to GET VACCINATED! Currently, vaccines remain the best public health measure to protect against COVID-19. The CDC emphasizes the high effectiveness of the vaccines as they are beneficial when preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and the transmission of the disease. 

      The spread of Omicron appears to be far more rapid than any other form of COVID-19. Thankfully, the severity of the illness has significantly decreased compared to Delta and the original strand of the Coronavirus, and the quarantine time has decreased to five days without symptoms. As of right now, the CDC has been and will continue to collaborate with global public health and industry partners to gain a better understanding of this variant, and the best way to monitor its course of spreading. And, as of right now, Omicron appears to be affecting those vaccinated. That being said, as medical professionals continue to learn more about this strand, it is crucial to take precautions to prevent the transmission of the disease which includes getting vaccinated and boosted, wearing your mask above your mouth and nose, staying home when you feel ill, getting tested frequently, and keeping a respectable distance between yourself and large groups of people. 

      Because Omicron is relatively new, it is important to keep yourself updated on more information about the strand in order to keep yourself, your family, friends, and peers safe. The CDC facts and information regarding public health are just one click away, so don’t hesitate to check constantly to learn more information from medical professionals.

Works Cited

CDC, The. “Omicron Variant: What You Need to Know.” Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021,
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/variants/omicron-variant.html.