Just when there was a ray of hope and people started adapting to the new world, so did COVID. The virus has adapted and evolved into new variants and refuses to slow down. Whenever the stream seems to calm down, here comes a new wave. And this time its name is Omicron.
It hasn’t even been a whole month since the 1st case of Omicron was detected in the USA. And already it has become the most dominant strain of COVID-19 to this day. Over 73% of new coronavirus cases were accounted for in less than 3 weeks according to CDC. With its first fatality in texas, USA, the new variant in pandemic has taken another downturn.
As of Monday, 20th December 2021, 48 of the states in America have reported thousands of cases of this variant. This was confirmed by the public statements from hospital systems and state officials. However luckily, Oklahoma and South Dakota were the only 2 states that have not reported such cases.
Scientists are still trying to examine the severity of this variant in the US compared to other variants. however, it is already expected to put extra pressure on the health care system and health care workers. As they struggle to increase the conduct of COVID tests, the authorities already have more than they can chew on their plates.
With new years on the horizon, health experts are urging Americans to get vaccinated or boosted. Muriel Bowser, Mayor of District of Columbia, mandated masks for indoor activities from 21.12.21 to 31.01.22. Officials are also trying to get more in-home test kits as fast testing options for people.
Other countries are of displaying caution as they place a ban on any Christmas or New Years’ Eve plans. Morocco illegalized New Year’s Eve celebrations. In Germany, private parties and indoor nightclubs will have to adhere to strict regulations. Paris has already been canceled its New Years’ celebrations. Trafalgar Square in London has canceled a 6,500-person New Year’s Eve event. Even The Netherlands has implemented a Christmas shutdown.
Bill de Blasio, Mayor of New York City, also spoke about the annual New Year’s Eve celebration in Times Square. Since outdoor events are still scheduled to go on with the condition that all participants must be fully vaccinated. However, the fate of this event is still up for debate and any changes will be announced pre-Christmas.
So What do you think, Should The USA still conduct a celebration for New Years’ amidst the spread of the Omicron variant? Or should they reinstate their previous lockdown restriction? Let us know your opinion regarding this in the comment section below.
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