The BA.1 subvariant of Omicron has become the dominant subtype of the variant in the United States, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The BA.1 subvariant is more transmissible than the original Omicron variant, but it does not appear to cause more severe illness..
The BA.1 subvariant was first identified in South Africa in December 2021. It quickly became the dominant subtype of Omicron in South Africa and has since spread to other countries around the world. In the United States, the BA.1 subvariant accounted for about 55% of Omicron cases in the week ending January 8, 2022..
The BA.1 subvariant is more transmissible than the original Omicron variant because it has mutations that make it better able to bind to and infect cells. However, studies have shown that the BA.1 subvariant does not appear to cause more severe illness than the original Omicron variant..
The CDC is monitoring the BA.1 subvariant closely and is urging people to get vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself against severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19..
Here are some things you can do to protect yourself against COVID-19:.
* Get vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19..
* Wear a mask in indoor public places..
* Stay home if you are sick..
* Get tested for COVID-19 if you have symptoms..
* Follow the CDC’s guidance on travel..
By following these steps, you can help protect yourself and others from COVID-19..
