Episode 15 The Omicron Variant

The omicron variant is now the predominantly circulating variant of concern in the United States. It is more transmissible and may have the ability of immune escape. Time will tell if it leads to a more severe disease, but regardless of disease severity, we need to remain vigilant and get the vaccine, get boosted, wear our masks, and wash our hands. These are all additive layers of protection to prevent the spread of infection.  We are joined by Caitlin Adams Barker who is a senior infection preventionist at Dartmouth Hitchcock. We talk to Caitlin about how we can reduce the likelihood of transmission as we plan to spend time with family through the holidays. Dr. Justin Kim also joins us for this episode. He is the hospital epidemiologist at Dartmouth Hitchcock and he gives us some higlights about the omicron variant and novel therapies for COVID-19.  The information shared in this episode is meant for medical education and should not be considered as medical advice.