Image via Tai’s Captures

If you follow the news, then you’ve probably been hearing about a new COVID-19 variant called omicron. While researchers are still trying to figure out just how transmissible this new variant is, preliminary data indicates that it is even more contagious than its predecessors, such as the delta variant, which remains the most dominant strain of the virus. More information is expected to be released in the coming weeks, but in the meantime, there are a few guidelines we recommend following. 

Get Vaccinated

Although the exact efficacy of existing COVID-19 vaccines against the omicron variant is not yet known, initial research indicates that vaccines are at least somewhat effective at preventing the spread of the new variant. As such, the best way of protecting yourself and your loved ones against COVID-19 is to get vaccinated. If you have a child between the ages of 5 and 11 that has yet to receive their first dose, make an appointment as soon as possible. Similarly, if you are of eligible age and have yet to receive your second dose or booster shot, it’s important to get it as soon as possible. 

Mask Up

Masks are just as important in this new phase of the pandemic as they have been in the past. Masks should continue to be worn in all public indoor spaces, even if you are vaccinated. Given that the rate of infection of the omicron variant appears to be higher than the delta variant, continuing to wear your mask is critical. 

Avoid Large Gatherings

The reality is that if omicron turns out to be as transmissible as people think, then large gatherings become even more risky than they already are. Even if you and your family are fully vaccinated, we still recommend keeping gatherings small this winter.

At the end of the day, we don’t yet know enough about the omicron variant to understand just how dangerous it is. In the meantime, we recommend following the measures above and signing up for the L.I.T. First Aid and Lifeguard Training courses to learn important first aid skills and CPR that could save your life.