The Omicron variant is now in five U.S. states, with a running total of ten infections across the country.
Officials and experts continue to monitor the movements of the COVID-19 pandemic. With the arrival of the new Variant of Concern, Omicron, many world leaders are already proactively reimposing measures to combat the further spread.
U.S. President Joe Biden is one of those leaders who have put new restrictions in place. These involve bans on travels from South Africa, where experts first discovered the Omicron strain.
On Thursday, though, the American leader outlined additional new steps and policies in preparation for winter. As explained, these measures aim to fight the potential case surges come the cold season, according to CNN.
New COVID-19 measures excluding lockdown
Biden said that the public needs to be ready. This comes as experts believe that COVID-19 cases will rise come the winter season.
Speaking from the National Institutes of Health in Maryland, the U.S. President noted that the plan he has “pulls no punches” in the fight against the pandemic. He also shared that it is a plan “that should unite” everyone.
The new policies seemingly place an emphasis on vaccinations, especially to those who have yet to take their jabs. Apart from expanding the vaccination effort, the measures also include booster provisions and changes to international travel rules.
In his announcement, he said that the new measures will center on “widespread vaccinations and boosters, as well as testing.”
Biden, however, stopped short of imposing a lockdown. He is reportedly ruling it out as he focuses on economic recovery.
Omicron variant cases in the U.S.
The Omicron variant of COVID-19 received a “VOC” designation from the World Health Organization on November 26. While experts have yet to fully understand the new strain, fears and worries have become immediately apparent among the public.
The United States confirmed its first case on Wednesday. The following day saw an increase in number as officials detected nine more infections due to the Omicron variant.
Reuters said that the new Variant of Concern is now in five U.S. states: New York, California, Colorado, Minnesota, and Hawaii. Officials also reportedly acknowledged that there is likely a “community spread,” considering that the Minnesota case had links to New York.
Meanwhile, health experts consequently stated that more cases will soon emerge in the United States. Accordingly, the public should continue observing the measures against COVID-19 to prevent further spread.
Images courtesy of CNBC Television/YouTube