Whitpain resident first in Montgomery County with Omicron variant

The Montgomery County Office of Public Health announced today that a 20-something Whitpain Township resident is the first person detected with the Omicron variant of COVID-19 in Montgomery County.

At this time, the county is asking residents to take precautions given the possibility that Omicron may be more transmissible. This includes wearing a mask in public indoor settings regardless of vaccination status and getting tested if you think you have been exposed to COVID-19. 

“Individuals who are not fully vaccinated remain at higher risk for contracting COVID-19, and for severe illness or death resulting from a COVID infection, than individuals who are vaccinated,” said Dr. Valerie A. Arkoosh, Chair of the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners. “The best way to protect you and your family from the Omicron variant is to get vaccinated and get a booster dose if you are eligible.” 

Over December 16-17, there were 764 cases of COVID-19 in Montgomery County and 10 deaths reported. There are currently 210 patients in the county’s hospitals with COVID-19. As of December 10th, the 14-day PCR positivity rate is 9.9%. Having this rate below 5% is considered having the virus under control.