As I mentioned on my post of November 29th, I felt the Omicron variant of Covid 19 was already here. This was confirmed yesterday when it was found on two patients. One test was taken on November 27th and the other on December 7th. This was confirmed by genomic analysis. So we have the delta variant with the numbers slowly rising and we have a new variant. Preliminary reports on Omicron suggest that it is more contagious, but maybe less lethal. It also appears that vaccines are less successful in preventing it. Preliminary data show that three vaccinations are most effective in preventing it.
What do you do differently based on this information? If you aren’t vaccinated, get vaccinated. I you are vaccinated, get a booster. Avoid large indoor gatherings with people whose vaccination status is uncertain. Sound familiar? In other words, behave as if we are in another surge, before we are in it. Other parts of the country are already there. Wear a mask when shopping. Consider home testing before family gatherings. https://personalphysicianmd.com/home-testing-for-covid-19/
If you feel obligated to attend a social gathering, arrive early before it is crowded and leave early as it fills up. Early arrivers are likely to be older and vaccinated. If possible and the weather (and humidity) allows, spend most of your time on the patio.
If you develop Covid 19, the treatment is the same regardless of the variant. An infusion of monoclonal antibodies is still the most effective treatment for mild to moderate disease.
Remember, over 800,000 Americans have died from this viral infection and 75% of them were 65 and older.
