11/28/2021
What do we know about the Omicron variant?
We are still learning about the new variant, including how it spreads and infects individuals as well as how it responds to vaccines. Here is what we know:
- There are currently no cases in the United States; however, based on other variants, it is only a matter of time before Omicron is detected in the United States. New variants will continue to evolve as long as there are large proportions of unvaccinated people.
- This new variant has many mutations in important areas of the virus that impact infectiousness and the ability for immune systems to protect from infection. Some of the mutations are concerning to scientists because they are very different from other variants previously detected, and some are similar.
- We do not know at this time if this new variant causes more severe COVID-19 illness than other variants or how it might impact response to treatment.
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/Omicron-Variant-Fact-Sheet.aspx