The Omicron variant of COVID-19 is rapidly proliferating across the United States, now accounting for nearly 75% of all new cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As the nation navigates the holiday season amid rising uncertainties surrounding this new strain, the CDC has indicated that Omicron’s prevalence has surged dramatically. Between December 12 and December 18, Omicron made up 73.2% of new COVID infections, increasing significantly from just 12% the previous week.
The Delta variant, which has been a major contributor to rising case numbers since last summer, accounted for approximately 26.6% of cases during the same period, as per CDC statistics. The swift rise of Omicron as the leading strain in the U.S. is alarming. In certain regions, including parts of the Pacific Northwest and the Northeast, particularly New York, Omicron variants now represent over 90% of new infections.
Adding to the concern is the uncertainty surrounding Omicron. First identified in southern Africa just last month, the variant has quickly spread to nearly every corner of the globe. It possesses more than 30 mutations, some of which appear to enable it to evade immunity from previous infections and vaccinations. Furthermore, Omicron is proving to be the most contagious variant of the coronavirus known to date, with its rapid transmission rates making it one of the most infectious pathogens on record.
Initial research suggests that Omicron may result in less severe illness compared to previous variants, but definitive conclusions cannot yet be drawn. There is also encouraging evidence that receiving a booster shot in addition to being fully vaccinated may reduce the risk of severe illness following exposure to Omicron. A significant study from South Africa indicated that vaccinated individuals typically experience mild symptoms, such as a scratchy throat, nasal congestion, and body aches that resolve within days.
What Does This Mean for Holiday Travel and Gatherings?
Health experts are advising caution, and President Biden is distributing 500 million at-home tests. If you plan to travel, it’s recommended to wear a high-quality mask in crowded environments like airports, keeping it on even while eating or drinking if possible. Regular testing is advised, including the use of at-home antigen tests available at various pharmacies and grocery stores. Should you test positive, it’s important to isolate for a minimum of 10 days.
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In summary, the Omicron variant has rapidly become the dominant strain in the U.S., making up a significant portion of new COVID-19 cases. While there are indications it may be less severe, the uncertainty surrounding its effects and transmissibility calls for cautious behavior, especially during the holiday season.