Missouri reports first case of omicron COVID-19 variant in St. Louis City

  Missouri reported its first case of the omicron coronavirus variant on Friday. 

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services said a sample presumed positive for the omicron variant from a St. Louis City resident who had recently traveled domestically. The health department is waiting for the CDC to confirm the sample.

The World Health Organization said omicron is a variant of concern due to its mutation capabilities. 

“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 and trusted medical sources opposed to social media,” Donald Kauerauf said. He's the department's director. “We also encourage Missourians to remain vigilant in protecting themselves and staying informed this holiday season as this new variant is investigated further.”

https://www.kmov.com/news/missouri-reports-first-case-of-omicron-covid-19-variant-in-st-louis-city/article_65473792-547e-11ec-843c-af70ff37dd53.html