Consider This from NPR As COVID-19 Cases Surge Again, Public Health Leaders See A Turning Point
May 6, 2022
COVID-19 cases are on the rise again in the U.S., signaling a potential turning point as the nation shifts toward an endemic phase. The new BA.2.12 variant is spreading rapidly, raising questions about public behavior and vaccination impacts. Experts explore how these Omicron variants evade existing immunity but still tend to cause milder illness. The discussion delves into the future of COVID-19 mutations, distinguishing between 'drift' and 'shift' and emphasizing the importance of ongoing vaccinations and boosters in managing this evolving virus.
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New Omicron Variant Surge
- The new Omicron variant, BA.2.12.1, is spreading rapidly in the U.S.
- It is expected to become dominant and cause a surge in cases within a month or two.
Reinfection Potential of BA.2.12.1
- BA.2.12.1 can evade immunity from prior Omicron infection, leading to reinfections.
- It does not appear to cause more severe disease than previous Omicron variants.
Vaccination Recommendations
- Get vaccinated and boosted, including a fourth dose for those over 50.
- Vaccines offer strong protection against severe disease and hospitalization, even with new variants.
