1st Wisconsin Omicron Variant Case Found In Milwaukee County

MILWAUKEE, WI — The first case of the omicron variant, the newest COVID-19 variant of concern, was detected in Wisconsin on Saturday, according to a news release from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.

The case in question was identified in a Milwaukee County man who had recently returned from a trip to South Africa and was fully vaccinated with a booster shot, the release said. He reported mild symptoms, and no hospitalization has been required, according to DHS.

The case is not related to the Milwaukee County COVID-19 outbreak linked to a Nov. 27 wedding that is currently being investigated by DHS and the City of Milwaukee Health Department, health officials said.

The omicron variant was first found in South Africa in November and has since spread to the United States.

"We’ve been prepared for this news and will continue trusting the science to help keep Wisconsinites and our communities healthy and safe," Gov. Tony Evers said in the release. “Now is the time to double down on our efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19, including the Omicron variant.”

Evers also urged eligible Wisconsin residents to get vaccinated or receive a booster dose, if applicable, as soon as possible.

DHS Secretary-designee Karen Timberlake asked Wisconsinites to "stay vigilant" in COVID-19 mitigation efforts to prevent further strain on Wisconsin's "heavily burdened hospital system."

"As we learn more about this variant and how easily it spreads, it’s crucial that all Wisconsinites continue to practice good public health safety measures like getting vaccinated, wearing a mask, staying home if you’re sick, and getting tested," Timberlake said.