UPDATE: New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced that there are five confirmed cases of the Omicron variant in New York. In a tweet, the Governor wrote “New York State has confirmed five cases of the Omicron variant. Let me be clear: This is not a cause for alarm. We knew this variant was coming, and we have the tools to stop the spread. Get your vaccine, get your booster, and wear your mask”.
The New York City department of Health (DOHMH) is reporting that while “there are no confirmed cases in NYC of the omicron variant of the virus that causes COVID-19”, they know that it is just a matter of time before the variant appears in New York City.
While the world grapples with this new variant, New York City officials remain cautious saying that “We do not yet have reliable evidence about whether this variant is easier to spread, more likely to lead to severe illness or able to avoid antibodies from vaccines or previous infections. However, there are early signs it may have the ability to spread rapidly.”
Watch the city Health Commissioner talk about the upcoming holidays and the need for vaccinations https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-eqCCrAGE4
City Officials strongly recommend everyone — including people who are vaccinated or were previously infected — wear masks in all public indoor settings.
Vaccination, masking and testing remain the most important tools in fighting this new variant of concern, according to the DOHMH on its website. “Vaccines are available for anyone 5 and older, and we recommend boosters for any adult who is fully vaccinated”
