LDH reports 13 additional probable Omicron cases in state

The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) Wednesday evening reported 13 additional probable cases of the Omicron variant of COVID-19.
The probable cases involve nine individuals in Region 1 (Greater New Orleans area), two individuals in Region 2 (Baton Rouge area), and two individuals in Region 7 (Northwest).
This brings the total number of Omicron cases in the state to 17 – 16 probable and 1 confirmed.
One of the earlier probable cases involves an individual in Region 4, which is the Acadiana area, who traveled internationally. This individual did not require hospitalization, according to the health department.
The first confirmed Omicron case in Louisiana was identified on Dec. 3.
The CDC and LDH recommend everyone 5 years of age and older get vaccinated and that everyone 18 years of age and older get a booster if eligible. It is also more important than ever to use those public health tools we know work — mask according to applicable guidelines, practice good hand hygiene, and get tested and stay home if you feel sick.
On Nov. 26, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified a new variant — B.1.1.529 — as a Variant of Concern and named it Omicron. This new variant was first reported to the WHO by government officials in South Africa.
Since that time, it has been detected in 50 countries and more than 20 states.
Information is still emerging, but Omicron includes multiple mutations across the SARS-CoV-2 genome. There is concern that this new variant may be more transmissible than previous strains and that Omicron may carry an increased risk of reinfection compared to other variants of concern.
LDH has established a network of laboratories to conduct genomic sequencing on positive SARS-CoV-2 specimens in order to track circulating SARS-CoV-2 lineages, including newly emerging variants such as Omicron. Epidemiologists, laboratorians and researchers will continue to closely monitor these data in order to continue to identify Omicron cases in Louisiana.
“These new cases of Omicron should serve as a reminder of the ongoing threat of COVID especially as we get ready to gather for the holidays,” state Health Officer Dr. Joseph Kanter said in a statement. “The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is get vaccinated and get the booster.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and LDH recommend everyone 5 years of age and older get vaccinated and that everyone 18 years of age and older get a booster if eligible. The CDC also recommends wearing a mask in certain settings.
LDH said there is concern this new variant may be more transmissible than previous strains and that omicron may carry an increased risk of reinfection compared to other variants of concern.