(Douglas County, NE) -- The COVID-19 Omicron variant is detected in Douglas County.
On Tuesday, the Douglas County Health Department was notified that 10 cases of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus have been confirmed in Douglas County residents. DCHD say the cases are in residents between the ages of five and 56.
The health department says the variant's detection was expected to happen eventually considering how quickly the variant has been identified around the country. In a release, the health department said, "Omicron has been shown to spread more easily than other variants, but it is not known how common severe illness, hospitalization, and death are with Omicron compared to other variants."
“We are not surprised to see Omicron in Douglas County and have been planning for it,” Health Director, Dr. Lindsay Huse said. “If you haven't gotten your vaccine or booster yet, please do so now. Also, please keep wearing a mask in public places, practice distancing as much as possible, and stay home when you are sick. Our community can slow the spread of this if we all pitch in and do our part."