First Case Of COVID-19 Omicron Variant Detected In Michigan

MICHIGAN — Michigan's first case of the COVID-19 omicron variant has been identified in a Kent County resident, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services confirmed Thursday.

"We are concerned, although not surprised, about the discovery of the Omicron variant in Michigan," said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. "We continue to urge Michiganders ages 5 and up to get vaccinated and continue participating in measures we know slow the spread of the virus by wearing well-fitting masks properly, socially distancing, avoiding crowds, washing their hands often and testing for COVID-19. Vaccines are our best defense against the virus and how we can manage the spread of COVID-19."

The Omicron variant, B.1.1.529, was classified as a "Variant of Concern" by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Nov. 30. Variants are classified as variants of concern if they show evidence of being more contagious, causing more severe illness or resistance to diagnostics, treatments or vaccines.

"We have tools that prevent the spread of COVID-19, including Omicron. However, we continue to see that those not utilizing these tools, including vaccines, are disproportionately affected by this virus," said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, MDHHS chief medical executive. "The data is clear that these vaccines are extremely safe and effective, and the side effects of COVID-19 are much worse than receiving a vaccine. I emphasize the importance of not waiting to get vaccinated. Now is the time."

According to Michigan health officials, the initial detection of the COVID-19 case was reported to the Michigan Disease Surveillance System on Dec. 3. MDHHS was notified by CDC that it was the Omicron variant on Dec. 9 following genetic sequencing. The sequencing was conducted and reported by a commercial laboratory as part of the CDC surveillance program.

MDHHS is coordinating with the Kent County Health Department on investigation of the case which is ongoing.

State officials said public health follow-up will include an assessment of the potential for out of state exposure, compliance with isolation guidance and outreach to close contacts.

Vaccine records indicate the Kent County adult was fully vaccinated but had not received a booster dose, state health officials said.

"The identification of the Omicron variant is not unexpected," says Dr. Adam London, Kent County Health Department Director. "We are fortunate that we have effective, safe and available vaccines that can protect us from this illness. We continue to urge people to get their vaccine and to get their boosters as soon as they are eligible."

The Omicron variant was first detected on Nov. 11 in South Africa and the first case was confirmed in the United States on Dec. 1.

Michigan joins the list of more than 20 other states with confirmed Omicron detections.