The Holiday season is upon us and so is the COVID-19 Omicron variant. As the MCTX community is getting ready for celebrations this season, remember to be cautious and to follow the 3 W’s –
- Wear a face mask
- Watch your distance
- Wash your hands
Both Fort Bend and Harris Counties are seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. Harris County has also recorded a death associated with the Omicron variant; as such Harris County has raised its COVID-19 threat level to “orange” which is the second highest level signifying an uncontrolled level of transmission and warning to minimize all contacts unless fully vaccinated. Fort Bend County also moved up to the orange, “Moderate/Significant” community risk category on Dec. 22, 2021.
Given that the test positivity rates are increasing around the region, here are some additional recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to safely enjoy holiday traditions and to help slow the spread of COVID-19:
- Get a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as you can.
- Avoid crowds and poorly ventilated indoor spaces.
- Test to prevent spread to others.
Studies thus far on the Omicron variant shows that it is highly transmissible with a greater reinfection rate than the Delta variant. To ensure proper protection against all variants, emergency officials are recommending all individuals 5 years and older to get vaccinated as soon as possible. According to the City’s Medical Advisor Dr. Joe Anzaldua: “Booster shots have been shown to increase protection against infection. Researchers are broadly optimistic that if fully vaccinated (including booster) this will blunt severe disease and death due to Omicron.”
Whether you are looking for a first dose or a booster dose, COVID-19 vaccinations are readily available at various providers. Most sites are now accepting walk-ins, however, for additional details click on the links below for the appropriate entity:
Low or no-cost COVID-19 testing is offered at several community-based testing sites, local pharmacies and other locations. Some urgent care centers may also offer testing; however there might be an associated cost. Residents may visit the following links for more details on some of the local testing sites:
Residents and businesses are encouraged to follow the COVID-19 protocols and guidances that are in place to help stop the spread during the holiday season. For more information, visit the City’s Emergency Management website, www.missouricityready.com.
For more updates, please watch the City website: , like us on Facebook—fb/MissouriCityTX, follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat—@MissouriCityTX and Nextdoor, watch Missouri City Television (Ch. 16 on Comcast and Ch. 99 on AT&T) or download the MCTX Mobile app (available for free in Google Play and the Apple app store).