As you've probably heard in the news, there is a newly detected strain of COVID-19 named Omicron. This strain has mutations in parts of the virus that may make it more transmissible and may affect vaccine efficacy and monoclonal antibody treatment. We should learn more in the next few weeks about whether this strain will represent a risk to our community. In the meantime, there are a number of ways to help reduce your risk of exposure:
- If you haven’t been vaccinated, get your covid shots now. Previous infection does not appear to protect you from Omicron.
- Get a booster -- the higher your levels of neutralizing antibodies, the lower your risk of getting COVID-19 even with a more vaccine-resistant strain.
- Up your mask strategy -- get rid of any fabric masks or surgical masks that don’t fit tightly. If your glasses fog, your mask is not protecting you like it should.
- If you are in a crowded indoor setting, particularly one without good ventilation, wear an N95, KF94, or KN95.
- Open your windows if you are having non-household members over. Even a crack makes a big difference.
- Get an air purifier (HEPA filter) and put it in gathering spaces in your home.
- Consider a humidifier -- viruses are more likely to cause infections if humidity is less than 40%. If your skin is dry, the air in your home is likely less than 40% humidity.
As always, please call us if you have symptoms, a known exposure, or any other questions.
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