Omicron Outcome
Just as our mask mandate was lifted, CCHS had its first post pandemic pep-rally before Christmas break, with this rally the day in the life of a CCHS student seemed to return to pre-pandemic normalcies...until a new variant appeared. The CDC has partnered with global public health to attempt to understand this Covid variant Omicron but still frighteningly little can be reported about the specifics of this disease. However, we do know a few characteristics of this disease and the impact it has had on the US so far.
While the CDC has not officially confirmed how easily the new Omicron variant spreads or the severity of the illness that ensues, many are concerned that this mutant strand entails deadlier side effects and a higher transmutability. Concerning the spread of this illness, officials state that despite the decreased risk of deadly infections when vaccinated, breakthrough infections are still likely. The official CDC site states, “The Omicron variant likely will spread more easily than the original SARS-CoV-2 virus,” but how easily Omicron spreads compared to Delta is still unknown. CDC expects that anyone with Omicron infection can spread the virus to others, even if they are vaccinated or do not have symptoms. Officials continue to recommend masks, vaccinations, and a healthy distance between yourself and others.
The question students across the US have been asking is one that has likely crossed your mind already: “Will there be another lockdown?” For several, the answer has been a resounding yes. Districts in Maryland, New Jersey, New Mexico, and New York chose to keep students out of school a week after winter break was scheduled to end due to increased numbers of infections. An incredible 286 schools were to move to virtual learning in January, however 208 of those closed were expected to return on the 18th of January, and several student bodies were told to stay home past the expected period. The number of new cases in Calloway County is not enough to warrant a shutdown. In fact, the Murray Ledger announced that as of January 6, 2022, “The case count is now at 6,366, with 5,933 recovered, 348 isolated at home, 13 hospitalized, and 72 deaths.”
To conclude, it does not appear that Calloway County High School will be shut down for an extended period, but officials suggest that the student body take precautions necessary to remain at this dwindling number of infections. To learn more about suggestions for staying well during the surge visit Omicron Variant: What You Need to Know | CDC.
