NewsDesk  @infectiousdiseasenews

Louisiana state health officials reported Friday the first probable case of the Omicron variant of COVID-19.

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

The individual is from the Greater New Orleans area, who recently traveled within the United States.

“We now know Omicron is here in Louisiana. This is cause for concern, but not panic,” said State Health Officer Dr. Joseph Kanter. “We have been expecting and preparing for this moment. To all Louisianans, the single best action you can take to protect yourselves and your families is to get yourself and loved ones vaccinated and boosted if eligible.”

“The Governor and I promised earlier today we would share with the public as soon as we had information that Omicron was in our state,” said Dr. Kanter. “We know families have questions and concerns. We will continue to monitor the situation and keep the public updated.”

The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) recommends everyone 5 years of age and older get vaccinated and that everyone 18 years of age and older get a booster.