It’s still early, but early research shows the variant is extremely contagious. The severity of the illness it causes is still being studied. Existing protective measures are showing early signs of being effective with the variant.

Yes, the first omicron case was reported in Missouri on Dec. 3, and in Kansas on Dec. 16.

Yes, and early research is showing that boosters are even more effective protecting against omicron than just being fully vaccinated with two doses.

The guidance for protection is still the same: wear a mask when indoors around others, social distance, get tested and get vaccinated and boosted.

When getting ready to gather, local health experts are continuing to emphasize that the best protection is vaccination.

That depends on when you got your initial dose or doses. Those that received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines can get the booster six months after the second dose. Those that received the single Johnson and Johnson vaccine can receive the booster two months after their dose.

Here’s where you can get a booster around Kansas City.

CDC guidance now says anyone 16 or over can get a booster shot.

Here’s where teens can get boosted around Kansas City.

Similar to first vaccine doses, it takes a booster two weeks to be as effective as possible.

Side effects are normal after a booster shot, but definitely not guaranteed. Fever, headache, fatigue and arm pain at the injection site have been the most commonly reported booster side effects. Check out this guide for more about what you could expect.

The vaccines are safe for children in the 5 to 11 age group recently approved for vaccination. Clinical trials were conducted with thousands of children, and no serious safety concerns were identified. Children may have some side effects from the vaccination similar to what adults experienced and similar to side effects children might have after a routine vaccination. The side effects are normal signs the body is building protection.

Here’s where kids can get vaccinated around Kansas City.

Children are as likely to be infected with COVID-19 as adults and can have both short and long-term health complications. As of October, children ages 5 to 11 have experienced more than 8,300 COVID-19 related hospitalizations. Getting a COVID-19 vaccine can help protect not only those 5 and older, but siblings and family members who aren’t eligible for vaccinations or at a higher risk of getting sick if they are infected.

KC Shepherd’s Center has resources to help anyone who is homebound. Call 816-444-1121.

The COVID-19 vaccines don’t cost any money regardless of insurance or immigration status. Some forms may ask about insurance, but typically that is for data collection and not a reflection of any insurance requirement.

The Kansas City Public Library partnered earlier this year with KC CARE Health Center to provide vaccinations and boosters to all who are eligible. Those clinics will continue through at least February, Tuesday through Thursday. There is no insurance information required. Spanish-language translators are available at each clinic.

52% of Missourians are fully vaccinated, and 50% of Kansans are fully vaccinated.

Health officials recommend PCR tests for the most reliable results, but at home tests can be a helpful precautionary measure to see if you’re contagious. At home tests are generally effective at detecting the delta variant. You can check out this guide for more information on the difference.

At least for now, delta is affecting Kansas City more than omicron.

Flu cases have been up this year. Public health officials are encouraging people to get a flu shot.