Getting booster is best protection against omicron variant this holiday season

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA (Dec. 21, 2021) — The new omicron variant of COVID-19 has arrived in Contra Costa County. However, we can still take effective steps to reduce our risk of getting sick and protect ourselves and our loved ones this holiday season.

Omicron began circulating in the Bay Area a few weeks ago. Health services inevitably detected the variant in Contra Costa. Omicron appears much more infectious than delta or other types of COVID-19 we have experienced in our community.

Getting vaccinated or getting boosted if already vaccinated, provides the best protection against omicron, and all COVID-19 variants.

People aged 50 or older, or people with health conditions that put them at higher risk of serious illness if they do become infected with COVID-19, especially benefit from getting vaccinated/boosted.

Widely available

Vaccines are widely available in the county from healthcare providers, pharmacies and Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS) no-cost clinics – call 1-833-829-2626 or make an appointment online.

This is also an important time to take extra precautions if you gather with people outside your immediate family or plan to travel this winter, such as wearing masks when you are close to others or in indoor public spaces.

Getting tested whenever you travel and before (as well as after) holiday get-togethers is also a great way to prevent the virus from spreading. Check the Get Tested page for no-cost testing options in Contra Costa.

Contra Costa Health Services wishes everyone a happy, healthy holiday season.