Omicron variant detected in Anchorage

The Anchorage Health Department (AHD) announced today that the Omicron variant of the coronavirus has been detected in an Anchorage resident. The resident had travelled internationally in November.

According to the press release, Alaska is now one of at least 30 other states and more than 60 countries that have already detected the Omicron variant, although clearly we shouldn't be minimizing the potential dangers associated with the variant.

Surprisingly, AHD, in conjunction with the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, said that it encourages Alaskans to get vaccinated against COVID-19 if they haven't already done so, and to get boosted if eligible.

United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Sunday the country was preparing for a "tidal wave" of Omicron cases.

Both California and New York announced they will once again require residents to wear masks indoors and begin reinstating covid-related mandates as concerns over the Omicron variant mount.

In Anchorage, Mayor David Bronson is largely expected to ignore the potential health crisis — which will most certainly continue to play well with his pro-covid Save Anchorage supporters.

Everyone age 5 and older is now eligible for a free vaccine in Anchorage. You can find information on where to get vaccinated at this link. Several no-appointment sites are highlighted below in yellow.