New Omicron Variant

A new COVID-19 Variant was found on November 30th, 2021. Viruses constantly change through mutation and sometimes these mutations result in a new variant of the virus. This new Variant is called the Omicron Variant, it was first found in South Africa. This variant is like the Delta variant but it might spread quicker than it. This new variant has already spread to the United States. Cases have been detected in San Francisco, California. We still don’t know how severe this new variant is. What are some ways you can protect yourself: Wear a mask. According to the CDC wearing a mask is an effective way to protect yourself from variants. Getting vaccinated is another great way to protect yourself. According to the CDC vaccines lower the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. There is now a vaccine for ages 5-11 so more kids can get vaccinated. The CDC doesn’t know how effective the present vaccines are going to be against new variants that will appear including Omicron. If more people get vaccinated it will slow down the mutation of the virus and make less new variants appear. Make sure you wear your mask inside public places and get vaccinated to help slow down these variants.