Omicron variant found in Cass County

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services notified Van Buren/Cass District Health Department that the Omicron variant has been identified in a Cass County resident.

Health officer Danielle Persky said although between Cass and Van Buren County there are now two Omicron variants identified, it can be safely assumed there are many others given the speed at which Omicron spreads.

The latest identification further emphasizes the importance of testing, especially after the holidays, she said.

The CDC expects that anyone with the Omicron infection can spread the virus to others, even if they are vaccinated or don’t have symptoms. Current vaccines are expected to protect against severe illness, hospitalizations and deaths due to infection with the Omicron variant.