CDC confirms first case of Omicron COVID-19 variant in U.S.
CBSN
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and health authorities in California confirmed the first case of COVID-19 linked to the newly discovered variant Omicron in the U.S. on Wednesday, saying an individual who had recently returned from South Africa tested positive for the strain.
The traveler was fully vaccinated and is experiencing "mild symptoms that are improving" and has been self-quarantining since testing positive, the CDC said in a statement. The person's close contacts have been contacted by health authorities and tested negative.
The health agency said the emergence of the variant "emphasizes the importance of vaccination, boosters, and general prevention strategies needed to protect against COVID-19. Everyone 5 and older should get vaccinated boosters are recommended for everyone 18 years and older."
