The highly transmissible B5 appears to be both vaccine and immunity resistant, meaning those who have had COVID before, even recently, are not protected from infection.
Omicron variant is the most highly mutated strain, with at least 32 mutations in the spike protein, which means it has changed shape and is better able to enter the cells of the body. It replicates 70 X faster than other variants and has a higher ability to reinfect if you have previously had covid-19.
If you were exposed to COVID-19, you should start taking these precautions.
Updated Boosters Being Developed
For the BA.5 subvariant wave expected in the fall, vaccines are still expected to provide protection against severe disease, and vaccine makers are developing updated booster shots that incorporate Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 strains.
Avoid Infection
- Get the COVID-19 vaccines and boosters
- Be aware of your risk of contacting Covid-19 in indoor and close outdoor settings and take precautions accordingly; i.e., wear a high-quality N95 mask
- If you have symptoms at any point, immediately test and do not expose others around you.
If you have Covid-19
Regardless of vaccination status, you should isolate from others when you have COVID-19. You should also isolate if you are sick and suspect that you have COVID-19 but do not yet have test results. If your results are positive, follow the CDC full isolation recommendations. If your results are negative, you can end your isolation.
COVID-19 is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation. Get the latest public health information from CDC: https://www.coronavirus.gov
