Top 5 Facts: Omicron

1. Omicron is now the dominant strain of the coronavirus in the U.S. that causes COVID-19.

2. Omicron is 2 - 3 times more easily transmitted between individuals than the delta variant.

3. The severity of disease caused by omicron may be reduced compared to delta and previous variants. However, the number of people needing hospitalization will likely be higher due the increase in total number of people infected.

4.  Vaccinations and when eligible, boosters, are the best defense in all ages to developing severe symptoms and requiring hospitalization. Visit healthvermont.gov/MyVaccine for a vaccine location near you. Locally in Bennington, VT, you can visit svhealthcare.org/COVID-Resource-Center. 

5. Other mitigation measures remain important in decreasing the chances of spread of virus, including staying home when sick, getting tested when you have symptoms, and masking while indoors with those who are not fully vaccinated and boosted if eligible.

To learn more about Omicron, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/variants/omicron-variant.html.