Omicron variant found in Florida, doctors say

The omicron variant has now reached Florida.

The James A. Haley Veterans Hospital in Tampa confirmed its first case of the new strain that has now reached 20 states.

In a statement, the hospital said: “The patient is experiencing mild symptoms and had recently returned from international travel. Our providers were able to quickly detect, test, confirm and add this data to our developing understanding of this strain.”

COVID-19 cases are surging across the United States, up 27% in the last week, though Florida has reported a consistent number of infections over recent weeks.

Research is still being done on the severity of the omicron variant and while it may not be as deadly as other strains, it does appear that it might be more contagious.

On Wednesday, Pfizer said that a booster dose of its COVID-19 vaccine may protect against the new omicron variant even though the initial two doses appear significantly less effective.

Health experts say delta remains the dominant variant in the United States.

Gov. Ron DeSantis has made it clear that Florida will not be taking extensive measures or adding any mandates, despite any new variants or potential surges.

The CDC is encouraging people to get tested before attending any holiday gatherings, vaccinated or not.

Monica Alvarez-Cunningham, who is pregnant, plans to get her COVID-19 booster shot this week, before traveling to spend Christmas with her family.

“Most of them are vaccinated,” she said. “It’s a small group that I’m going to be with, but a couple of them aren’t (vaccinated) so I just want to do what’s best for me and my baby.”

Currently in effect, travel restrictions imposed on eight African countries over the omicron variant.

All international travelers flying into the U.S. must provide a negative COVID-19 test taken within one day of departure.