Idaho health officials have confirmed the presence of the omicron variant of the coronavirus in the state.
Central District Health, the public health agency that serves four counties including the Boise region, said the variant was confirmed in a lab sample from an Ada County resident. The resident was fully vaccinated and experienced mild symptoms.
Scientists are working to determine details about the new variant, including whether it evades immunity. Early indications suggest it may be more easily transmissible but cause less severe illness than the delta variant, which is widespread in Idaho and nationwide.
The Idaho Department of Health says the best way to protect against COVID-19 and the omicron variant is by getting vaccinated and getting booster shots when eligible and by wearing masks and avoiding crowds. (Idaho Department of Health and Welfare)
