First Omicron COVID variant cases found in Tri-Cities
Four cases of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 have been detected in the Tri-Cities.
The Benton-Franklin Health District announced Thursday afternoon that the first cases of the new variant have been found in both Benton and Franklin counties as part of testing done December 4-8.
The health district said sequencing results take 7 to 10 days after specimen collection.
Three of the cases were in Benton County from two people in their 40s and a resident in their 80s.
The fourth case is a Franklin County resident in their 40s.
“On Dec. 1, when the first case was reported in the United States, we shared that it was a matter of ‘when,’ not ‘if,’ the Omicron variant of COVID-19 would be detected here,” said Dr. Amy Person the local district’s health officer.
“We do know that even if a vaccine doesn’t target a specific variant, the strong immune response you get from being fully vaccinated can still be highly protective against severe disease from all COVID-19 variants,” she said in the release.
“As we continue to learn more about this new variant, we know the measures that are most effective in helping to keep ourselves and our families safe from Omicron, Delta, and other COVID-19 variants: get vaccinated, get your booster, and wear a mask,” she said.
“That’s the key to saving lives and keeping our businesses, schools, and communities open. If you aren’t yet vaccinated or need a booster dose, get an appointment or find a walk-in vaccine clinic today,” she wrote.
The Health District plans to hold a briefing on Friday morning.
This story was originally published December 16, 2021 at 5:59 PM.
