The new COVID variant has inspired a fresh wave of uncertainty.
Recently, medical researchers identified a new variant of interest of the COVID-19 coronavirus, codenamed the Omicron variant. The Omicron variant has already been confirmed to have spread to several countries around the world, though the precise extent of its mutations and resistances has not yet become clear. Surprisingly, no cases of Omicron have been discovered in the United States as of writing, but even so, local governments are opting for the better-safe-than-sorry approach.
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced today that the city will be reinstating its face mask advisory. While wearing masks are not yet a requirement, it is highly recommended that all NYC citizens wear face masks while in indoor public spaces, regardless of whether or not they have been vaccinated. This advisory may change once researchers gain a greater understanding of the Omicron variant’s response to existing vaccines.
“There are no omicron cases here in New York City at this moment. It is very likely there will be, but there are no cases at this moment,” de Blasio said during a press conference. “Our entire focus once again is going to be on vaccination. Based on everything we know, vaccination is crucial to any strategy for addressing omicron.”
Dr. David Chokshi, commissioner of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, believes that it is only a matter of time before Omicron cases begin appearing in the United States and in New York City in particular. As such, the best course of action is one of surveillance, keeping an eye out for cases and preventing their spread through contact tracing.
