Omicron Variant COVID Case Identified In Metro Atlanta: GA Public Health Officials

GEORGIA — A third case of the COVID-19 omicron variant has been confirmed in Georgia, public health officials said.

An unvaccinated individual living in metro Atlanta with no recent international travel history tested positive for the variant strain of the virus, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health.

The individual showed mild COVID symptoms and is now isolating at home as contact tracing is being conducted to identify close contacts who may be at risk, officials said.

Two other cases were reported in Georgia since the omicron variant was identified late last month in South Africa. Both cases involved individuals who had recently traveled from South Africa. One woman traveled through Georgia and was tested in New Jersey where she is now recovering, authorities said.

DPH reported a second Georgia case last weekend discovered in an individual who lives in the state, officials said.

Public health officials have detected the omicron variant in at least 21 U.S. states and in dozens of countries globally, authorities said. While early signs show that the new variant may not cause as severe illness as the delta variant or the original strain of COVID, virologists believe the omicron variant may spread more easily, according to DPH.

State health officials encourage the public to get vaccinated to protect against omicron and recommend that those who received the full dose of vaccine more than six months ago get a booster shot. Leaders with Pfizer and BioNTech announced earlier this week that a booster was effective in neutralizing the omicron variant.

Individuals who have symptoms of COVID-19 or who may have been exposed to someone with COVID should get tested.

To find a COVID vaccine or COVID testing location near you log on to dph.ga.gov.