Coronavirus Report: December 6, 2021

 By Marsha Mullings, MPH

USA

49 million cases,

792,000 deaths

Florida

3.7 million cases,

61,701 deaths

Update

The daily average number of new cases in the US has risen to 108,000, a significant increase over the last week.

New coronavirus cases are again rising in Florida. The daily average is now 1,500 cases, far below the summer peak, but higher than the last week’s average.

Announcements

Omicron Variant Detected in The United States

The Omicron variant of the coronavirus, first reported by scientists in South Africa, has now been reported in 16 states across the US.

At this point, there are no reported cases of the Omicron variant in Florida. This simply means that cases have not been detected in Florida, however it is likely that there are undetected cases of Omicron already present in the State.

The Omicron variant has over 30 mutations in its spike protein and may be partially resistant to currently available vaccines. Scientists are working to determine how effective current vaccines are in producing an immune response against this new variant.

In response to the Omicron variant, new travel advisories are being issued across the globe. The US will require that all persons entering the US from a foreign country present a negative COVID-19 test within 24 hours of their travel date.

Advisory

COVID-19 remains a serious health crisis. Vigilance is critical to reducing the chance of acquiring an infection. Practice good COVID-19 control strategies:

— Observe social distancing guidelines (6 feet or more of separation from others).

— Practice good hand hygiene (wash hands frequently with soap and warm water or use hand sanitizers).

 — Wear a mask when out in public if you are unvaccinated.

For more information on coronavirus (COVID-19) prevention, visit www.FloridaHealth.org; nyt.com; www.coronavirus.jhu.edu;  www.cdc.gov;