Omicron has been detected in the Peach State. What that means for Middle Georgians
The first case of Omicron in Georgia was confirmed Sunday by the state health department, noting a person who had recently traveled to South Africa developed mild symptoms and subsequently tested positive for the COVID-19 variant.
“Vaccination is key to preventing further transmission of COVID-19 and helps prevent new variants like Omicron from emerging,” said Dr. Kathleen E. Toomey, commissioner of the state health department. “It also is important to remember that even as Omicron is emerging, we are still in the midst of a pandemic currently being fueled by the Delta variant.”
Michael Hokanson is the public information officer for the North Central Health District, a branch of DPH responsible for managing health departments in 13 Middle Georgia counties. Here’s what he had to say about the impact of Omicron on Middle Georgia:
Q: How effective are COVID-19 vaccines against Omicron?
A: It is still too early to have any significant data on the efficacy of COVID-19 vaccine against the Omicron variant. Many of the identified cases across the globe have been in fully-vaccinated individuals, so we expect that, much like Delta, Omicron is able to be passed to and from vaccinated people. While vaccines are expected to reduce the likelihood of severe outcomes, there is not yet enough data to determine how protected vaccinated people are against hospitalization and death related to Omicron.
Q: How important is it for Georgians to get a booster shot, if they’re eligible
A: CDC and the Georgia Department of Public Health encourage all eligible individuals to get a booster of COVID-19 vaccine. At this moment, any adult age 18 and older is eligible to receive a booster dose, no matter which COVID-19 vaccine they received. Studies have shown that each brand of COVID-19 vaccine wanes in effectiveness over time, this is why boosters are encouraged, especially for the most vulnerable to severe outcomes of COVID-19.
Q: Should Georgians prepare for similar restrictions/suggestions from Omicron? Do you think people should socially distance themselves, wear masks, work/learn remotely, etc.?
A: Yes, practicing the personal protective measures (masking, social distancing, etc.) related to stopping the spread of COVID-19 can help reduce a person’s risk of encountering Omicron. Everyone is encouraged to perform a personal risk assessment and keep aware of any local or organization-specific requirements when it comes to risk reduction.
Q: How does this variant differ from previous variants?
A: As was the case when other variants were new, there is still not enough data to concretely compare Omicron to other COVID-19 variants.
Q: Are there different side effects, is it more deadly/dangerous?
A: Omicron is likely to spread more easily than the original strain of SARS-CoV-2 virus, but how it compares to Delta is unknown.
The CDC recommends people wear a mask in public settings, stay 6 feet from others, avoid crowds and poorly ventilated spaces, and frequently wash their hands to protect against COVID-19. DPH will continue to monitor Omicron developments and provide updates as new information becomes available. To find a COVID vaccine or COVID testing location in Middle Georgia visit dph.ga.gov
This story was originally published December 8, 2021 at 12:00 AM.