Second case of omicron found in Minnesota resident who traveled to NYC, per CDC

A second case of the omicron variant has been found in the United States in a Minnesota man who traveled to New York City shortly before developing symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The man, who is vaccinated, developed symptoms late last month after attending the Anime NYC 2021 convention at the Javits Center and tested positive for coronavirus as couple days later once back home in Minnesota.

Genomic sequencing done through the Minnesota Department of Health found that the man was infected with the omicron variant, which was first detected in South Africa and has now made its way to dozens of countries.

Minnesota Commissioner of Health Jan Malcolm said, “We still have more to learn about Omicron, but the most important thing we can do right now is to use the tools we have available to make it as hard as possible for this virus to spread.”

The man’s symptoms were mild and he has recovered, according to health officials.

CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky said, “CDC has been actively monitoring and preparing for this variant. We have been working closely with Minnesota’s Department of Health and will continue to work diligently with other U.S. and global public health and industry partners as we learn more.”

It remains unknown whether omicron is more contagious, more severe, or could evade vaccines.