Officials have yet to confirm whether a fourth stimulus check is likely.
The United States government has disbursed millions of relief payments amid the pandemic. After the three rounds, though, many are still asking for a fourth stimulus check as the COVID-19 crisis has yet to end.
There has been a recurring push for a new stimulus payment across the country. But, experts believe that it is no longer likely to happen because of the improving conditions these past few months.
Many countries, including the U.S., have, indeed, shown some recovery from the pandemic. However, a new variant of the coronavirus seemingly threatens to hamper these improvements.
Accordingly, some are wondering whether a fourth COVID-19 relief payment will now be possible because of the Omicron variant.
Fourth stimulus check and the Omicron variant
A recent article from The Ascent states that the Omicron variant could be the “only chance” of Americans to get a fourth stimulus check next year. This may likely happen if the new strain turns out to be worse.
There is reportedly a possibility of receiving another direct payment from the federal government if the variant necessitates further COVID-19 measures.
As explained, the new variant has caused world leaders to take action. Many of them, including U.S. President Joe Biden, have already imposed new restrictions to slow or stop the spread.
Accordingly, if government officials put more measures in place, this could further slow down the country’s recovery.
First case in the United States
On Wednesday, U.S. officials confirmed that they have detected the first known Omicron variant case in the country. The involved individual was a fully vaccinated traveller, who returned from South Africa on November 22, according to USA Today.
Experts revealed, however, that the infected person has already recovered. Moreover, the infection only caused mild symptoms.
There is little information about the new Variant of Concern. But, worries and fears toward it have grown across the globe since its emergence last week.
About the new Variant of Concern (VOC)
Experts and officials in South Africa first detected the Omicron variant on November 24. Two days later, the World Health Organization classified it as a Variant of Concern (VOC) due to its characteristics.
The health agency emphasised, however, that there are still a lot of unknowns and uncertainties about the new VOC. It remains unclear how infectious it is or how severe the illness would be upon infection.
Despite this, health officials urge the public to continue observing COVID-19 measures. This is to ensure to stop or slow down the further spread of the virus.
Meanwhile, as studies and research about the Omicron variant are still underway, it is also unclear whether it will necessitate a fourth stimulus check. But, it appears that the push for it, regardless of the variant’s presence, will remain apparent.
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