On?November?26, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified?a new variant, B.1.1.529,?as a "Variant of Concern." Named Omicron, no cases of this variant have been identified in the U.S. to date. The new strain is causing health officials to urge residents to use precautionary measures to curb the spread of COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is following the details of this new variant, first reported to the WHO?by South Africa. CDC officials expressed gratitude to the South African government and its scientists who have openly communicated with the global scientific community?and continue to share information?about this variant?with the?U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and CDC.?
Due to a rise in COVID-19 cases, increased hospitalizations and deaths, and the upcoming holidays, everyone should know the federal, state and local recommendations and take precautions to protect themselves, their families, and their loved ones.
"Hospitals, health care providers, emergency medical systems, and public health organizations are seeing the strain on their systems due to the surge," said Lisa Peacock, Health Officer with the Health Department of Northwest Michigan. "We cannot face this on our own. It is up to all of us to take action to help stem the rapid increase in cases across our region" she said, adding cases, hospitalizations and deaths are reaching or surpassing the peak numbers experienced in April 2020.
A milestone has been reached locally with 70% of residents 16 years and older in Antrim, Charlevoix, Emmet, and Otsego County with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. In nearly two weeks 6.7% of children aged 5-11 have received their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine. The state's objective remains to get as many Michiganders vaccinated as possible, and the Health Department continues to provide opportunities for eligible individuals to receive their first, second, or additional and booster doses.
