(WLUK) – Wisconsin has its first confirmed case of the omicron variant of COVID-19, according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
DHS says the infected person is an adult male and a Milwaukee County resident who recently returned from a trip in South Africa. The person was fully vaccinated and had a booster dose.
The person has reported mild symptoms and no hospitalization has been required, according to DHS.
“With the detection of Omicron in Wisconsin, Wisconsinites should stay vigilant in their efforts to stay healthy and to help prevent further strain on our heavily burdened hospital system,” said DHS Secretary-designee Karen Timberlake. "As we learn more about this variant and how easily it spreads, it’s crucial that all Wisconsinites continue to practice good public health safety measures like getting vaccinated, wearing a mask, staying home if you’re sick, and getting tested."
Health officials say the Wisconsin confirmed case is not linked to a Milwaukee wedding outbreak that is still being investigated.
On Friday, health officials tied five Northern California omicron cases to a group of people believed to have been infected while at a wedding in Milwaukee on November 27th.
One of the infected people from California was at the wedding after international travel, according to health officials.
DHS is urging all Wisconsinites to follow these public health practices to protect against COVID-19, including variants like Omicron:
Get vaccinated.
Get your booster if you’re eligible.
Wear your mask in public indoor settings.
Stay home if you’re feeling sick.
Wash your hands frequently.
If you’re experiencing symptoms or have been identified as a close contact, get tested for COVID-19.
Everyone ages 5 and up can receive a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. Additionally, the CDC now recommends that everyone 18 and older receive a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine at least six months after having received their second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine or two months after their single dose of Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Vaccines are free and you do not need an ID or health insurance to get one. To find a vaccine location in your community visit Vaccines.gov, or call 211 or 877-947-2211.