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Doctor: COVID Variant Could Peak In Iowa In Late January

Omicron Variant on test tube

Photo: Getty Images

(Iowa City, IA) -- University of Iowa Health Care Epidemiologist Dr. Daniel Diekema says it's possible the COVID-19, Omicron variant could peak in the United States within the next two weeks. Dr. Diekema says the peak in Iowa would likely occur later, toward the end of January or into early February.

Dr. Diekema made the comments today (Wednesday) during an on-line news conference. He says 80-to-90 percent of new coronavirus cases are the fast-spreading Omicron variant. He says while symptoms appear to be less severe than with the Delta variant, the soaring number of cases is still a concern. He says while there are fewer coronavirus hospitalizations in Iowa at this time, the fast-spreading Omicron variant could result in health care staffing shortages, placing a burden on the system.

Dr. Diekema says there's mounting evidence that the coronavirus booster shot provides good protection against the variant, and he and other health care officials continue to urge Iowans who can, get vaccinated against coronavirus and get a booster shot as well.

He says Iowans who have relaxed their mask-wearing habits, should consider getting back in the habit again, especially indoors around others.


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