Los Angeles County Reports Seventh Case of the Omicron Variant
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (Public Health) has received confirmation of one additional case of COVID-19 with mutations consistent with the new Omicron variant (B.1.1.529). The individual recently traveled domestically, is fully vaccinated, had mild symptoms, and is self-isolating.
Public Health has identified close contacts in Los Angeles County, some of whom have tested negative, and others are awaiting test results. Additionally, close contacts have been identified outside of the County that are being tested.
“This latest case of the Omicron variant in Los Angeles County underscores how critical safety measures are while traveling,” said Barbara Ferrer, PhD, MPH, MEd, Director of Public Health. “All indications are that among those fully vaccinated, illness severity if infected with Omicron is mild, reminding us that all eligible residents need to urgently get vaccinated or boosted. The vaccines are likely to provide much needed protection against serious illness caused by Omicron and are already known to provide protection against infection and disease associated with the Delta variant that continues to dominate across the County.”
Additionally, all residents across LA County should continue:
- Getting tested to help reduce the spread, especially if you traveled for the holidays, have had a possible exposure or have symptoms
- Adhering to masking requirements when indoors or at large outdoor mega events, regardless of vaccination status
Residents are also reminded that they are legally required to be isolated if they have a positive COVID test result and that vaccinated close contacts with symptoms and unvaccinated close contacts need to be quarantined.
