Omicron variant present in KFL&A COVID-19 sample

Today, Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2021, KFL&A Public Health announced that the Omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus has been sequenced in a case in the region.

Public Health said they had been notified of the whole genome sequencing results of a sample from an individual positive for COVID-19. According to a media release, the sequencing confirms that the newly identified Omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus is present in the Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington region.

At this time, the individual identified with the Omicron variant does not have a travel history, Public Health stated. According to the release, KFL&A Public Health continues to investigate the COVID-19 case to identify transmission.

KFL&A Public Health reminds residents that it is important that to continue to work together, stay vigilant, and follow the public health measures to keep COVID-19 from spreading in KFL&A. This includes:

• Get fully vaccinated when you are eligible to help protect those most vulnerable.
• Screen for symptoms of COVID-19 daily.
• Stay home, isolate, and get tested if you have any symptoms, even mild.
• Avoid social gatherings.
• Stay two metres apart from people you do not live with and wear a mask in indoor spaces.
• Consider curbside pick-up, delivery, or alternate hours for shopping, especially if you are at a higher risk for illness.

“Please be diligent and continue to adhere to public health measures leading into the holiday season. The continued efforts of individuals and families to limit or avoid social gatherings, screen daily for symptoms and stay home if you have any symptoms will help our community limit the spread of Omicron,” said Dr. Piotr Oglaza, Medical Officer of Health at KFL&A Public Health.

This new Omicron variant of COVID-19 was first detected in Ontario in early December and first isolated and identified by South Africa.

For the most up-to-date information visit Kflaph.ca/Coronavirus or COVID-19 (coronavirus) in Ontario.