By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Omicron Variant Detected In Stanislaus County
COVID

Stanislaus County Public Health has confirmed its first Omicron Variant in an adult female. This individual had a previous COVID-19 infection and got fully vaccinated more than six months ago. Omicron has been identified as a variant of concern by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As Public Health continues to learn more about this rapidly spreading variant, community members are reminded to get vaccinated, get their booster shots, and take every precaution to prevent the spread.

Community members should get their booster shots at least six months after completing the full series of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, and at least two months after receiving Johnson and Johnson vaccine. Getting vaccinated and getting boosted as soon as eligible provides the best protection against Omicron and other variants. This is especially important for children and adults who have chronic conditions that put them at a higher risk of severe COVID-19 disease.

• Get vaccinated or get a booster if you qualify by calling (833) 422-4255 or visiting the My Turn website. Vaccines are available to anyone aged 5 or over.

• Wear a mask, especially in public indoor settings, regardless of vaccination status. For current mask mandates and guidance, visit CDPH’s Guidance for the Use of Face Coverings and Face Coverings Q&A to learn more.

• Get tested whether you’ve been vaccinated or not if you’ve traveled or have any symptoms. Anyone testing positive for COVID‐19, regardless of vaccination status, must follow the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions’ Isolation and Quarantine Guidance. If symptoms develop, all people should isolate and be clinically evaluated for COVID‐19, including SARS‐CoV‐2 testing.

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, or use an alcohol‐based hand sanitizer.

• Stay home if you’re sick and distance yourself from others.

While there’s still a lot to learn about Omicron, the recent increase in cases in a short amount of time does show how quickly this variant spreads. The growth advantage and very rapid doubling time of this variant may jeopardize hospital capacity in a short time frame. The Stanislaus County Public Health Officer will continue to assess this development as it evolves.