Omicron Spreads

More States have reported Cases

In the latest reports by ABC News and CNN, the Omicron Variant has now been detected in at least eight states(and growing). From New York on the East Coast to California on the West Coast, the Omicron Variant has increased its presence in this country.

This is concerning to many in the medical and scientific fields. While the United States has 60% of all citizens vaccinated, it may not be enough to minimize the Omicron’s impact. There was a spike in cases right after Thanksgiving and with Hanukah in full swing and Christmas in a couple of weeks, more cases are sure to come.

Vaccinations are more important than ever. And Omicron’s appearance seems to have spurred more people to get vaccinated. Online sites to book an appointment are full. People going to places like CVS and Walgreens for walk-in appointments often wait up to 45 minutes to get their shot. But people seem to be determined to wait and get their shot.

The National Institute for Health (NIH) encourages all adults 18 and over to get vaccinated. And if they’re already vaccinated, to get a booster shot. I received my booster shot back in September. As a worker in a highly contagious setting, I couldn’t risk getting infected with COVID. My immune system is compromised due to cancer.

Many adults are in the same situation — but aren’t vaccinated. Many others are vaccinated but have yet to get a booster shot. I encourage everyone to get their vaccinations and boosters. Omicron’s impact hasn’t been determined yet. The Delta Variant is still causing the majority of infections. We can only wait to see what happens when these two variants get together.