Texas' 1st Omicron Variant Case Identified In Houston Area

Houston TX

07 December, 2021

10:50 AM

Description

HOUSTON, TX — The first case of the new omicron variant of COVID-19 in Texas has been identified in the Houston area, according to Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo. A woman in her 40s from northwest Harris County tested positive for the newest variant of interest, Hidalgo said in a tweet Monday evening. The woman was fully vaccinated and had no recent travel history. Harris County Public Health and the Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed Hidalgo's announcement and are investigating the known case. The woman experienced COVID-19 symptoms but has not required hospitalization, Harris County Public Health said in a statement. The omicron variant has now reached 17 states after first being identified in South Africa in late November, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Health authorities are still studying the omicron variant, but it appears it spreads more easily than most COVID-19 variants. It is unclear if it causes more severe disease, according to DSHS. Both DSHS and Harris County Public Health are urging Texans to get vaccinated or receive a booster dose if they have not already done so. Those wishing to get a vaccine can find a provider close to them at Vaccines.gov. NEW: A woman in her 40s from NW Harris County with no recent travel history has tested positive for the Omicron variant of COVID-19. The best way to protect ourselves and our community from this virus is to get vaccinated & boosted. Get your shot ➡️ https://t.co/qS98pi06fL— Lina Hidalgo (@LinaHidalgoTX) December 7, 2021