As Omicron Variant Spreads, Cal OES Reminds Californians How to Stay Safe

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The Omicron variant has now been detected in the United States, including California. The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) wants to ensure that all Californians are aware of ways to stay safe as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.

The variant was able to be recognized quickly because of California’s large-scale testing and early detection systems. The state’s partners at the University of California, San Francisco identified this case through the use of advanced techniques of genomic sequencing. California is continuing to monitor the variant’s presence and progress but there are a few simple things each of us can do to stay safe.

Get Vaccinated

So far, 58,802,815 total vaccines have been administered in California. Cal OES has delivered 69,786,295 doses to pharmacies, clinics, and hospitals across California.

covid-19 vaccination progress in california. as of december 2, 2021 there have been 58.8 million doses administered and 76.5% of population has been vaccinated with at least one dose

Cases, hospitalizations, and deaths are largely occurring among unvaccinated populations throughout California. One of the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones is to get vaccinated.

All COVID-19 vaccines currently available in California are safe and effective at preventing serious illness. Californians ages 5 and older are now eligible for vaccination.

If it’s been six months since your second dose of the Pfizer/Modern vaccine or two months after the single dose J&J vaccine, you’re now eligible for a booster shot.

Vaccination appointments can be made by visiting myturn.ca.gov or calling 1-833-422-4255. The consent of a parent or legal guardian may be needed for those under age 18 to receive a vaccination. Visit Vaccinate All 58 to learn more about the safe and effective vaccines available for all Californians 5+.

Practice Good Hygiene

Practicing good hygiene can help stop the spread of COVID-19 and keep you and your loved ones healthy and safe.

  • Wash your hands often with soap and warm water
  • When hand washing isn’t available, use hand sanitizer
  • Cover all coughs and sneezes and wash your hands after
  • Maintain 6-feet distance from others

Wear Masks in Indoor Public Spaces

Wearing a mask while indoors or in large groups can help slow the spread of COVID-19. California recommends everyone wear a mask in indoor public places regardless of vaccination status.

Wearing a properly fitting mask will help slow the spread of COVID-19.

Masks are required in indoor public places for everyone who is not fully vaccinated. Masking is required in public transit and in healthcare settings, K-12 schools, and childcare settings.

Remember, wearing a mask can also slow the spread of other illnesses, such as the flu.

Stay Home and Get Tested If You’re Sick

Anyone feeling sick, even with mild symptoms, should stay home, isolate from others, and seek COVID-19 testing. It’s best to get tested, even if you’re fully vaccinated.

To find a list of testing locations, click here.

Sign Up for CA Notify

If you have a smartphone, you can sign up for CA Notify, California’s exposure notification tool. If you’ve been exposed to COVID-19, you’ll get an alert along with additional information on how to get tested and next steps. Sign up for CA Notify here.

More preventative tips can be found on the California Department of Public Health website.