The COVID-19 omicron variant is in SC. FAQs about symptoms, vaccine
Medical University of South Carolina officials announced Wednesday they had identified the first cases of the new omicron variant of COVID-19 in the Palmetto State.
But what is the omicron variant? And is it something South Carolinians should be worried about?
Here are five things to know about the newest COVID-19 strain:
What is the omicron variant?
The omicron variant is a new, mutated strain of the COVID-19 virus, which was first reported in South Africa in late November. Because of the numerous mutations to the omicron variant, world health leaders sounded early alarms about it.
After it was identified, the World Health Organization classified it as a “variant of concern” as scientists continued to research its effects.
The omicron variant quickly spread outside of Africa, being found in the United States for the first time Dec. 1.
Omicron isn’t the first COVID-19 variant to spread across international boarders. The delta variant was first identified in India in December 2020 and now is the most prevalent strain of COVID-19 found in the United States.
Is the omicron variant more contagious?
The omicron variant is likely more transmissible than the original strain of COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Studies into whether omicron is more contagious than the delta variant, the most prevalent type of COVID-19 in the U.S., are still underway.
Scientists do believe that vaccinated people are still susceptible to contracting the omicron variant.
Does the omicron variant have more severe symptoms?
Scientists are still studying the omicron variant, so there are still a lot of questions about how severe illness caused by the variant can be in comparison to other COVID-19 strains.
A recent study from South Africa showed omicron seems to cause less serious illness than other COVID-19 variants.
Experts maintain, however, it is too early to be sure.
According to the World Health Organization, the symptoms are similar to other strains of COVID-19.
Is the vaccine still effective against the omicron variant?
Scientists are still determining the effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccines against the omicron variant.
CDC officials expect that vaccine will protect against severe illness, hospitalizations and deaths. However, they say it is likely that breakthrough infections will occur.
A recent U.S. study showed that COVID-19 vaccines appear to be less protective against the omicron variant than other variants. That study seemed to indicate, however, that a vaccine booster dose significantly increases protection against the variant.
A study released last week from Pfizer showed that three doses of their vaccine were more effective at protecting from the variant than two doses.
Unsure if you should get the COVID-19 booster shot? Take our quiz.
What can I do to keep myself safe?
Protecting yourself against the omicron variant is as easy as protecting yourself from other COVID-19 variants.
Health officials suggest getting not only the COVID-19 vaccine but also a booster shot if you are eligible. Vaccine locations across South Carolina can be found online at vaxlocator.dhec.sc.gov.
People should also practice caution in large groups and wear a mask, if necessary.
This story was originally published December 15, 2021 at 1:08 PM.
