Here it is, the first day of winter with Christmas on Saturday. Little did we think yet another Coronavirus variant would thwart plans of holiday gatherings. In fact, can I say, déjà vu, It’s starting to feel like 2020 again?
Like many others, I looked forward to a do-over from last year’s reduced or nil celebrations.
For sure, everyone is seeing and hearing about the impact of Omicron as the variant of concern as deemed by the World Health Center. This variant is highly transmissible similar to the Delta.
We’re sick of the variant, but the variant isn’t sick of us. I would hope by now that most midlifers understand the importance of the words full vaccinated and perhaps even boosted.
The CDC says the Omicron variant of the Coronavirus now accounts for nearly three-quarters of all new infections in the United States.
It makes sense we see the infection rates doubling. The colder weather is driving people indoors, and this time of the year, the risk is greater with holiday celebrations.
Adding to the mix, the staggering statistics on the many people still not fully vaccinated.
The discovery of the Omicron variant less than a month ago in South Africa. Let’s not forget about Delta, another variant of COVID-19.
We must not let our guard down. We must protect ourselves. How? Don’t allow a déjà vu situation as you celebrate your traditions. Be fully vaccinated, boosted, and mask, and avoid large gatherings.
The expectation is that current vaccines will protect against severe illnesses, hospitalizations, and death due to infection with the Omicron variant. However, breakthrough infections in people fully vaccinated can occur.
Knowing the symptoms and most insurances, including flexible spending accounts (FSA), will cover the cost of at-home COVID-19 testing kits. Some kits allow you to receive digital results on your smartphone.
As always, thank you for reading.
