Date Posted: December 26, 2021

If you've been keeping up with the news lately, you've likely heard about the emergence of a new coronavirus variant spreading globally. Although there’s still much to learn about the Omicron variant, early indications suggest it may transmit more easily than the original SARS-CoV-2 virus. Here’s everything you need to know about the Omicron variant and what you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.

What Exactly Is the Omicron Variant?

The Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) was first identified in Botswana and South Africa. Named after the 15th letter of the Greek alphabet, it has been classified as a "variant of concern" by the World Health Organization due to its numerous mutations, which could potentially make it more contagious and less responsive to existing vaccines.

The appearance of Omicron raises many questions that require solid data and evidence to answer. Some of these include: “Do I need a new vaccine to stay protected?”; “Will it spread faster than other viruses?”; “Can standard testing kits detect this variant?”; “Will this strain make people sicker?”; and “Do current treatments still work for this variant?”

Over the next few weeks, researchers hope to gather more information about the Omicron variant. There is currently no evidence suggesting that it is resistant to existing vaccines.

How Can You Safeguard Yourself Against the Omicron Variant?

As scientists worldwide race to understand more about the Omicron variant, there are practical steps you can take to protect yourself and your family. These steps draw on universal precautions, which have been shown to be effective not only against COVID-19 but also against many other viruses that spread through human interactions like talking, laughing, eating, sneezing, and coughing.

Universal precautions involve multiple layers of protection. The more layers you implement and the more consistently you follow them, the better your chances of staying safe.

• Layer 1: Stay healthy and get vaccinated as soon as you’re eligible. The COVID-19 vaccine is now available for children aged 5 and older. For more details, consult your healthcare provider.
• Layer 2: Wash your hands frequently with either alcohol-based hand sanitizer or soap and water. Hand sanitizer can effectively kill germs, preventing them from entering your body and spreading to others. Alternatively, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
• Layer 3: Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces like countertops. Germicidal wipes can be found in most grocery stores. Using them to clean frequently touched surfaces can help remove germs and kill any remaining bacteria.
• Layer 4: Avoid crowded places and maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from others.
• Layer 5: Wear a well-fitted mask when you can’t stay 6 feet away from others or when you’re indoors with others.
• Layer 6: Ask friends and family members to avoid visiting if they show symptoms of COVID-19, the flu, or other contagious illnesses.
• Layer 7: If you develop symptoms of COVID-19, the flu, or another infectious disease, isolate yourself until you recover. Seek medical advice if your condition worsens.

We believe your health is in your own hands because we live in an environment filled with both known and unknown pathogens.

 

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