Advertisement

3 Boston residents test positive for omicron variant

Three Boston residents have tested positive for the fast-spreading omicron COVID-19 variant.

None of the three infected adults were fully vaccinated, according to a statement by the Boston Public Health Commission.

"BPHC is monitoring this situation closely and continues to work with city and state partners to inform policies and prevention efforts," the statement read.

Each of the affected people had a mild case of COVID-19 and did not require hospitalization, according to the commission.

Omicron has now spread to at least 77 countries worldwide, and its rate of infection is outpacing the delta variant, which swiftly became the dominant COVID-19 variant earlier this year. Researchers in South Africa have said that, while omicron has spread aggressively, reported cases seem to be mild, though more research into the variant's effects is being done.

Closer to home, Massachusetts and the rest of the region are experiencing another post-holiday surge in coronavirus cases. Gov. Charlie Baker on Monday announced a plan to make available more than 2 million rapid antigen tests that people can use at home. Though less accurate than a lab-based PCR test, the antigen tests should help Massachusetts residents make decisions about further holiday gatherings, he said.

The state is also finalizing plans to restart a mass vaccination clinic inside Fenway Park.

Related:

Headshot of Roberto Scalese

Roberto Scalese Senior Editor, Digital
Roberto Scalese is a senior editor for digital.

More…

Advertisement

More from WBUR

Listen Live
Close