First Cases Of Omicron Variant Confirmed In North America

We’re nearly two years into the COVID-19 pandemic at this point, and we’re still dealing with the emergence of new variants. The latest variant, named Omicron, was first discovered in South Africa but is now confirmed to be in North America. 

“I was informed today by the Public Health Agency of Canada that testing and monitoring of COVID-19 cases has confirmed two cases of the Omicron variant of concern in Ontario,” Canadian Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos said in a statement.

Duclos said that cases of the variant are expected to rise, and the Canadian government will continue to monitor the situation. NBC News reports that both individuals who tested positive had recently been in Nigeria.

“We continue to urge the federal government to take the necessary steps to mandate point-of-arrival testing for all travelers irrespective of where they’re coming from to further protect against the spread of this new variant,” health officials said.

President Joe Biden called the new variant concerning but “not a cause for panic” on Monday. He said there are no plans to implement a lockdown but encouraged Americans to get vaccinated, get a booster, and once again wear face masks indoors. 

He advised that Omicron will inevitably make it into the US at some point; it’s just a matter of when. Biden suggested that the best way to prepare for its arrival is to get the shot. 

However, details surrounding Omicron are still largely unknown. Scientists believe it could be more transmissible given the high number of mutations and may escape immune defenses. Dr. Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said Sunday that existing vaccines likely provide some protection against severe cases.