First Texas omicron variant case confirmed in Houston area

Harris County reports state's first case of COVID-19 omicron variant

The new strain of the coronavirus is here in Texas. A woman in the Houston area who has not traveled recently tested positive for the variant.

A woman in her 40s from northwest Harris County has tested positive for the omicron variant of COVID-19.

State health officials made the announcement Monday night – the first confirmed case of the omicron variant in Texas.

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"It’s normal for viruses to mutate, and given how quickly Omicron spread in southern Africa, we’re not surprised that it showed up here," said Dr. John Hellerstedt, DSHS commissioner, in a written statement.

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo said the woman had no recent travel history.

Health officials reiterated the best protection against COVID-19 is being fully vaccinated. They urged for parents to have their children, ages 5 and up, get the shots. They also encouraged fully vaccinated adults to get their booster shot if they are eligible.

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