Governor Ned Lamont issued a statement saying he is monitoring the new Omicron variant | Connecticut News | Today Headlines

(WFSB) – Governor Ned Lamont issued a statement earlier today regarding the emergence of the new Omicron variant.

He says: “We are monitoring a worrying new COVID variant, which was identified by the World Health Organization on Friday. This new variant – named Omicron – was first reported to WHO by government officials in South Africa. Our Connecticut Department of Public Health team, led by Commissioner Manisha Juthani, is closely monitoring these developments. While no cases of the Omicron variant have been reported here in Connecticut or the United States to date, we still need to be vigilant. Given the number of countries where Omicron has already been detected, it may already be present in the United States.

He continues, “Earlier this year, we set up a network of laboratories, coordinated by the Connecticut Department of Public Health, that perform genomic sequencing on positive test samples to help understand the variants circulating in the system. Connecticut. Our advance planning in this area will help us keep up with Omicron, in addition to other variations that may appear in the future. “

“This news from the Omicron variant reminds us of the importance of getting vaccinated and receiving a booster. We have now entered the winter holiday season and still need to hide in indoor public places, practice good hand hygiene, take tests, and stay home if you feel sick. This cold can be more than just a cold. It is especially important to take extra care when visiting with friends or relatives who are older or immunocompromised who are at higher risk for COVID, ”says Lamont.

“There’s a reason Connecticut got national recognition during this pandemic and it’s because of our residents. With your help, we will also get through this next step, ”he concludes.