Booster shot demand remains consistent despite concerns over Omicron variant
Although the Omicron variant hasn't been detected yet in Riverside County, there are still concerns on how to protect yourself just in case it does.
However, the demand for boosters has stayed consistent despite the concerns over the spread of the Omicron variant.
According to data from other countries seeing a rise in Omicron variant cases, Riverside County’s Public Health Officer, Dr. Jennifer Chevinsky, said Omicron seems to be more transmissible than other variants.
"There appears to be so far an increase in transmissibility," Dr. Chavinsky added, "So an increase in the amount that it's spreading from person to person compared to the other variants that we see.”
She said data from researchers suggests the variant could infect people that have previously been infected with Covid-19. “There's multiple different layers that your body goes through in order to fight feature and function, but that memory function may not be working quite as well when it when it comes to omicron,” said Dr. Chavinsky.
She said most cases from omicron seem to be mild, but she is encouraging anyone who is eligible to get vaccinated or get their booster.
“We don't yet have any data to the contrary, that we should see something different for the Omicron," said Dr. Chavinsky, "Still, the best chance of keeping out of the hospital of surviving is with having the vaccination.”
According to the World Health Organization, it was first detected in South Africa and has prompted another round of travel restrictions across the world.
The WHO said it is not yet clear whether Omicron is more transmissible compared to other variants, including Delta.
It's also unclear if an infection with Omicron causes more severe disease, or if the symptoms are different.
On Friday, The Joslyn Senior Center held a vaccine clinic.
They said so many people came into get their booster, they needed to pick-up more to even keep up with demand.
“We’re closing in on 100 booster shots today which far exceeds our expectations,” said Felice Chiapperini, Community Development Specialist for Desert Oasis Healthcare.
Although many people were rolling up their sleeves for an extra dose, some said they’re still not worried about the Omicron variant.
“Frankly, I think its a bunch of smoke," said Tom lockett, who got his booster shot, "There is one, so what. There is going to be 20 more.”
While others are on high alert with the Omicron variant.
“I am concerned about the Omicron variant and it's one of the reasons I want to work with Desert Oasis Healthcare to protect our seniors in the community," said Jack Newby, Executive Director of The Joslyn Center, “It’s a virus, it doesn’t care who you are, what you are or anything else.”
