MI Health Officials Urging Vaccination, Masks Due To Omicron

MICHIGAN — Although the omicron coronavirus variant has not been detected so far in Michigan, state health officials are urging residents to get vaccinated, wear masks and take other precautions, according to a news release.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said Monday it is monitoring for the variant and advising people that its presence will make it even more important to get vaccinated and follow COVID-19 protocols.

"Ensuring that as many Michiganders as possible are vaccinated remains the best protection we have against COVID-19 — including variants of concern," said Michigan’s chief medical executive, Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian. "We are asking Michiganders to continue to use critical mitigation measures, such as getting vaccinated and getting boosters when eligible, wearing a mask, and getting tested regularly. Increased transmission fuels the development of more variants of concern."

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has declared omicron to be a variant of concern, since it appears to be more transmissible based on preliminary information. Omicron was identified by South African scientists last week.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Bureau of Laboratories has re-analzyed the genetic sequencing data from 31,000 positive COVID-19 samples sequenced in its lab and has not identified any cases of the new variant, the news release said.

"It’s still early, and there is much that we need to learn about the Omicron variant," said Dr. Alexis Travis, senior deputy director of MDHHS' Public Health Administration. "We know what protection measures are needed to reduce the spread of COVID and prevent additional mutations of the virus. We need Michiganders to continue to do their part to keep themselves and their loved ones safe."

In addition to getting vaccinated and wearing masks — especially indoors and in crowded areas — people can also protect themselves and others by:

• Getting tested for COVID-19, especially before gatherings.
• Physically distancing from others and avoiding crowds.
• Washing hands frequently with soap and water, and cleaning hands with alcohol-based hand rub.
• Covering your mouth and nose with a bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Self-isolating until you recover if you develop symptoms or test positive for COVID-19.

Due to the state's alarming rise in new COVID-19 cases, Michigan remains under a public health advisory. All Michiganders, regardless of vaccination status, should wear a mask in indoor public settings; and those who are not fully vaccinated or who are immunocompromised should avoid large crowds or gatherings.