Pathfinder
Editor, Senior Moderator
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 20, 2021
Harris County Reports First COVID-19 Omicron Variant-Related Death
Unvaccinated man with underlying health conditions had tested positive for the Omicron variant
Houston –Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is reporting the first COVID-19 Omicron-variant associated death in the County.
The death reported this afternoon was of a man between the ages of 50-60 years old who was
unvaccinated and had been infected with COVID-19 previously. The individual was at higher risk of
severe complications from COVID-19 due to his unvaccinated status and had underlying health
conditions.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the patient’s family, and we extend our deepest sympathies,” said
Barbie Robinson, HCPH Executive Director. “This is a reminder of the severity of COVID-19 and its
variants. We urge all residents who qualify to get vaccinated and get their booster shot if they have not
already.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have reported that the Omicron variant is
widespread. There is still a lot of unknown information about the Omicron variant, though this case has
been confirmed through additional testing that may not reflect the total number of cases in our
community.
Variants are mutations or changes to the genes of the original virus and there are currently several
notable COVID-19 variants in the U.S. The Omicron variant was first identified in South Africa in
November 2021 and currently is a concern for public health.
HCPH recommends all individuals five years and older get vaccinated as soon as possible. To be
protected against all current COVID-19 variants, including Omicron, individuals must be fully
vaccinated and get a booster shot when they are eligible. Being vaccinated provides the best protection
from developing complications or death resulting from COVID-19.
To find a HCPH vaccine site near you, click here. If you prefer to make an appointment, go to
vacstrac.hctx.net or call 832-927-8787
https://publichealth.harriscountytx....PPhgBoog%3d%3d
Harris County Reports First COVID-19 Omicron Variant-Related Death
Unvaccinated man with underlying health conditions had tested positive for the Omicron variant
Houston –Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is reporting the first COVID-19 Omicron-variant associated death in the County.
The death reported this afternoon was of a man between the ages of 50-60 years old who was
unvaccinated and had been infected with COVID-19 previously. The individual was at higher risk of
severe complications from COVID-19 due to his unvaccinated status and had underlying health
conditions.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the patient’s family, and we extend our deepest sympathies,” said
Barbie Robinson, HCPH Executive Director. “This is a reminder of the severity of COVID-19 and its
variants. We urge all residents who qualify to get vaccinated and get their booster shot if they have not
already.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have reported that the Omicron variant is
widespread. There is still a lot of unknown information about the Omicron variant, though this case has
been confirmed through additional testing that may not reflect the total number of cases in our
community.
Variants are mutations or changes to the genes of the original virus and there are currently several
notable COVID-19 variants in the U.S. The Omicron variant was first identified in South Africa in
November 2021 and currently is a concern for public health.
HCPH recommends all individuals five years and older get vaccinated as soon as possible. To be
protected against all current COVID-19 variants, including Omicron, individuals must be fully
vaccinated and get a booster shot when they are eligible. Being vaccinated provides the best protection
from developing complications or death resulting from COVID-19.
To find a HCPH vaccine site near you, click here. If you prefer to make an appointment, go to
vacstrac.hctx.net or call 832-927-8787
https://publichealth.harriscountytx....PPhgBoog%3d%3d
