Omicron variant confirmed in WW

WALLA WALLA—The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) recently notified Walla Walla County Department of Community Health (DCH) that the COVID-19 variant B.1.1.529 (Omicron) has been identified in COVID-19 specimens collected from the county.

First identified in South Africa, there is much unknown about the Omicron variant.

“It appears the Omicron variant will likely spread more easily than the original COVID-19 virus,” said Public Health Officer Daniel Kaminsky. “While the severity of symptoms does not seem to be as dramatic as previous variants, due to the sheer number of cases, the hospitalization rate is still being driven upward.”

While cases surge in the county, it is essential to take precautionary measures when necessary. Walla Walla County DCH continues to recommend that every eligible person gets vaccinated. The vaccine is safe, effective, and free to everyone ages five years and older. Wear a tight-fitting mask and social distance when possible.

Visit the County COVID website at http://www.covidwwc.com or text COVIDWW to 888777 for the most up-to-date county COVID information.