What is the COVID-19 Omicron variant?

The COVID-19 Omicron variant was first detected in the United States in December 2021. The affected individual was a traveler who recently returned from South Africa, where the Omicron variant was first identified in November 2021. There is evidence that this and other variants spread more easily than other COVID-19 strains, and Omicron has been classified as a Variant of Concern by the World Health Organization (WHO). These variants are being closely monitored, and more studies are needed. However, vaccination still seems to be effective against the different variants. It’s important to continue to follow public health recommendations, including vaccination, physical distancing, use of masks, hand hygiene, and isolation and quarantine, as appropriate, to limit the spread of COVID-19.