Omicron variant is milder but better at evading vaccines, South African data indicates
The omicron variant appears to cause less severe disease than previous strains, South African data suggests. But the Pfizer vaccine seems to offer less defense against infection.
Omicron variant appearing milder than delta, South African doctors say
In the two weeks since omicron first was reported in Southern Africa, other doctors have shared similar stories. All caution that it will take many more weeks to collect enough data to be sure, their observations and the early evidence offer some clues.
WHO warns omicron variant fears may set off hoarding of COVID-19 vaccines
The World Health Organization has expressed concerns that rich countries spooked by the emergence of the omicron variant could step up hoarding of COVID-19 vaccines.
UPDATE: Nine cases of omicron variant identified by Houston Methodist, more expected
Houston Methodist has confirmed they have identified nine cases of the omicron variant through its comprehensive virus genome sequencing surveillance project. They expect more will be identified in the next couple of days.
Chief Medical Officer for city of Houston talks Omicron variant discovery in wastewater
FOX 26 spoke with Dr. David Persse, Chief Medical Officer for the city of Houston Tuesday about the new Covid-19 variant being detected in the city’s wastewater.
New international travel restrictions now in place as US officials try to curb spread of Omicron variant
U.S. health officials say early reports about Omicron are “encouraging” suggesting the new COVID-19 variant is less dangerous than Delta.
Woman from NW Harris Co. tests positive for Omicron variant
A woman in her 40s from northwest Harris County has tested positive for the Omicron variant of COVID-19, according to Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo.
Omicron variant may be less dangerous than delta, US health officials say
“Thus far, it does not look like there’s a great degree of severity to it,” Dr. Anthony Fauci said.
Omicron variant: Pfizer running ‘neutralization tests’ with its COVID-19 vaccine
Companies Pfizer and BioNTech are currently running tests in response to the rapidly spreading omicron variant with data likely available in the coming weeks.
Israel health officials confirm 7 omicron COVID-19 cases, 27 others suspected
Israel's Health Ministry says it has confirmed seven cases of the new omicron variant of the coronavirus, stoking fears of a pending surge in infections.
Study suggests past COVID-19 infection may not fend off omicron variant
A research group has been tracking reinfections in South Africa and reported a jump with the arrival of omicron that they hadn't seen when two previous variants, including the extra-contagious delta variant, moved through the country.
India confirms 1st 2 cases of the omicron variant
The Health Ministry said the cases involved two men in southern Karnataka state, a 66-year-old man who had traveled to India from South Africa and a 46-year-old doctor.
Houston ISD to lift mask mandate amid COVID-19 Omicron variant
Leaders in Houston ISD were considering updating the district’s mask mandate after the holidays. But with the new variant, that decision is now under review. FOX 26’s Natalie Hee has more.
Tracking the COVID-19 Omicron variant
The new Omicron variant of COVID-19 has sparked widespread concern over its uncertainty. On Monday, a new travel ban will go into effect in the US, to help slow the spread.