AUSTIN (Talk1370.com) -- Preliminary lab results have shown evidence of the COVID-19 omicron variant in Travis County, officials said Monday.
The results from three individuals are pending genetic sequencing and confirmation of the omicron variant, according to Austin Public Health and University of Texas at Austin Health Services. That additional testing is expected to take several days, officials said.
Officials said the three individuals have not traveled internationally, which provides a "strong indication" that community transmission of the omicron variant is occurring within Austin and Travis County. According to officials at UT, the three cases have not been linked to each other through contact tracing, giving another indication of community transmission.
“Our community learned first-hand the dangers new variants can pose. The delta variant arrived in the summer and is still in our community. Now we have the omicron variant,” said Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin-Travis County Health Authority. “Our mission and our approach remain the same. Get vaccinated, get boosters, stay home if you are sick, wear your masks to protect yourself, your loved ones, and our hospital systems from this virus.”
Preliminary reports indicate the omicron variant is a highly transmissible form of COVID-19. However, officials said, it is still too soon to know the severity of disease.
"It was inevitable that the omicron variant would arrive in Austin, and we are closely following the data to understand how this new variant will impact our community and hospital system as we continue to fight the delta variant," said Austin Mayor Steve Adler. "As we prepare to spend time with loved ones this holiday season, it is now more important than ever to get the vaccine and your booster shots. And it’s always best to wear masks indoors if you’re around unvaccinated people."
Common symptoms caused by the omicron variant include cough, congestion, runny nose and fatigue, and are the same as other COVID-19 variants. Anyone who feels ill should stay home and get tested.
“We knew it was only a matter of time before the omicron variant would reach Travis County. I am confident our community will step up and do what is necessary to mitigate any potential surge,” said Travis County Judge Andy Brown. “In the meantime, I encourage everyone to get fully vaccinated and boosted six months after your second dose. And until our Health Authority says otherwise, you are encouraged to wear a mask as recommended by the risk-based guidelines.”
All three vaccines continue to provide protection from COVID-19 and its variants. Vaccines are readily available at both Austin Public Health and Travis County clinic sites as well as pharmacies, medical offices, and community clinics. Everyone 5 years of age and older can and should get their vaccines.
