Omicron causing concerns over holiday gatherings

While most of us are ready for quality family time this holiday season, an expert says you shouldn’t let pandemic fatigue get in the way of protecting yourself against the growing threat of the Omicron variant.

“We’ve entered a fifth wave. Our numbers are up dramatically over the last week,” said Dr. Daniel Gregson, an infectious disease specialist with the University of Calgary.

On Tuesday, Alberta reported 786 new cases of COVID-19 and Omicron infections rose to more than 1,600.

And with cases on the rise, it is likely the new year will bring some of the highest daily recorded cases.

“Omicron is now our dominant strain and there is increasing community transmission in the province. This means if someone tests positive for COVID-19, they should assume they have the Omicron variant,” said Dr. Deena Hinshaw during Tuesday’s live update.

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The province announced tougher restrictions on large venues but will still allow indoor private social gatherings of up to 10 people, 18 and older, including those who are unvaccinated.

“They are at highest risk of requiring hospitalization and our health care system has come through a pretty tough time over the past three months and I don’t think now is the time to stress the system again,” said Gregson.

Although no additional restrictions have been placed on social gatherings, Hinshaw recommends rethinking your holiday plans.

“I believe this situation is so serious, that my family has canceled our holiday plans. In the next few weeks, we will see transmission rise to heights we’ve never seen before.”