Missouri’s first case of the COVID-19 Omicron variant has been found in a presumed positive sample from a St. Louis city resident who recently traveled domestically, the Department of Health and Senior Services reported today (Dec. 3).
A sample is presumed positive until tested and confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Jefferson County Health Department Director Kelley Vollmar said she believes the new variant is probably already in Jefferson County, and if not, it soon will be.
“One of the things we've learned as we've worked our way through the pandemic is that once a variant is found, all of them are basically one plane flight away,” she said. “It could be a plane flight from another state; it could be somebody just commuting from one county to the next.”
Vollmar encourages anyone 5 and older to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and to get a booster shot if they already are fully vaccinated.
She also encourages people to wear masks and to practice good hand hygiene.
“Although there is much we still need to learn about this new variant, we do know the best tool currently available to protect ourselves from COVID-19 is personal prevention. I urge Missourians to seek information on the Omicron variant from DHSS (the Department of Health and Senior Services) and trusted medical sources opposed to social media,” DHSS director Donald Kauerauf said. “We also encourage Missourians to remain vigilant in protecting themselves and staying informed this holiday season as this new variant is investigated further.”
Vollmar said public health officials are still learning about the effectiveness of the vaccines against the new variant.
“We do know that getting your booster shot is highly encouraged to make sure you are maintaining your highest level of protection,” she said.
As of Dec. 1, 45.20 percent of Jefferson County residents had completed their vaccination series.
“There are locations probably within 2 miles of almost anybody's house at this point in time to be able to find a vaccine and get not only themselves but their kiddos vaccinated,” Vollmar said.
People may sign up for a vaccine appointment through the Health Department by going to the state vaccine Navigator website at covidvaccine.mo.gov/navigator. Or they may call 877-435-8411. Or, to find another local vaccine site, visit vaccinefinder.org.
