First Case Of Omicron Variant Confirmed In Pima County

Tucson AZ

16 December, 2021

6:12 PM

Description

TUCSON — The Pima County Health Department reported the first confirmed case of the omicron variant of the novel coronavirus on Thursday, according to a news release from the health department. The first person in the county to have a confirmed case of the omicron variant initially tested positive for COVID-19 in early December in Tucson, the health department said. The Arizona Department of Health Services verified Thursday through genetic sequencing that the patient had the omicron variant. "We knew it was a matter of when, and not if, Omicron would be in Pima County," Pima County Health Department Director Dr. Theresa Cullen said in the news release. "The best courses of action remain the same. Getting the vaccine is highly effective in preventing serious illness and death, including against the variants. If you have been vaccinated, get boosted to stay protected. And follow the other layered mitigation strategies – wear a mask in public indoor spaces, wash your hands frequently and physically distance."Click here for an updated list of local sites where those 5 and older can get a free COVID-19 vaccine. Click here to find a free testing location in Pima County. Self testing kits are available for free at Pima County Public Libraries.