On Friday (Nov. 26), the World Health Organization designated COVID-19 omicron as a variant of concern based on evidence that the omicron variant has several mutations that may have an impact on how it behaves; for example, how easily it spreads or the severity of illness it causes. The variant was first detected in South Africa and has since been detected in a number of other countries, though not in the United States. Public health experts do, however, believe it will be detected in the U.S. as well.
It is not yet clear whether omicron is more transmissible compared to other variants, including delta, or whether it causes more severe disease. The number of cases has risen in areas of South Africa where omicron is present, and epidemiological studies are underway to determine if this increase is because of omicron or other factors. The WHO and public health experts are working to understand how effective current vaccines and detection tests are for omicron. PCR tests continue to detect infection, including infection with omicron, and studies are ongoing to determine whether there is any impact on other types of tests, including antigen tests.
There are no changes to current campus policies or plans at this time. While public health experts continue to learn more about omicron, this serves as a good reminder for all of us to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and flu, and get those around us vaccinated and to get your COVID-19 booster dose when you are eligible to do so. Remember, all adults are eligible for boosters six months after their second dose of Pfizer or Moderna and two months after the single Johnson & Johnson dose. Remember to complete your daily symptom check, stay home if you are ill and get tested for COVID-19 if you have symptoms regardless of your vaccination status. If you will be traveling, be sure to check and follow CDC travel guidance for pre- and post-travel recommendations.
Answered by David Souleles, director of UCI’s COVID-19 Response Team