Dec. 6, 2021

Much remains unknown about the omicron variant of the coronavirus. It's been found in at least 16 states, and Minnesota was one of the first to report a case of the variant last week. Researchers are still unsure if it will make people sicker than the delta variant.

Michael Osterholm, director of the University of Minnesota's Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy, said the evidence so far suggests omicron may be more transmissible than delta, but it might not make people as sick — perhaps due to genetic information that omicron picked up from another virus that causes the common cold in humans.

In an ideal world, omicron might even outcompete delta, infecting more people with a milder illness and leaving them with additional protection against SARS-CoV-2, Osterholm added.

“The most important message … listeners can take away from today's discussion: Please get vaccinated if you haven't been, as soon as possible,” Osterholm said. “And for those who are eligible for boosters, get them.”

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