Scientists are seeing several signs that the latest strand of COVID-19, Omicron, is about to peak in the United States. The variant has proven to be so contagious that it may already be running low on people to infect, only a month and a half after it was detected.

   The highly contagious variant is causing an increase in cases and a high demand for testing. If you have been exposed to COVID-19 or have COVID-19 symptoms and are waiting for a test. Stay home and isolate yourself from others to protect them and yourself.

   Omicron is likely to cause fewer symptoms compared to other variants. For example, data suggests that Omicron results in hospitalization at about half the rate compared to Delta. Although, given how infectious Omicron is, it is important to take precautions such as getting the vaccine, wearing a mask, and frequently washing your hands.

   Unfortunately, Omicron is so easily spread that even those who are fully vaccinate and have received the most recent booster can get the illness.

   Health officials have warned that coronavirus is here to stay at this point.