Skip to main content

Important COVID-19 Information

December 30, 2021

Omicron variant is now predominant.

Omicron variant

The Omicron variant is now predominant in Massachusetts and has managed to outcompete the Delta variant due to its very high transmissibility and its ability to evade the immune response given by vaccination and prior infection. COVID-19 case numbers are as high as they have ever been throughout the pandemic. But there is some good news. Basic science research suggests that there is reason to believe that the Omicron variant is less capable of infecting lung cells and thus causing severe disease. Data from several countries shows the case-to-hospitalization rate is lower with Omicron than it was with Delta (meaning people are less likely to be hospitalized).

New CDC Recommendations for Isolation + Quarantine

CDC has substantially changed the recommendations for Isolation (symptomatic illness or positive test) and Quarantine (COVID-19 exposure) for the general public. Massachusetts has adopted this new guidance from the CDC.

Learn more

Two Antiviral Pills Authorized

Two at-home pill treatments for COVID-19 have been authorized by the Food and Drug Administration for patients who test positive for the coronavirus. An antiviral pill treatment from Pfizer was authorized on Wednesday, December 22, and another from Merck was approved on Thursday, December 23. Stay tuned for more information on treatment availability.

Yes, You Should Get the Booster Shot Now

Vaccination and booster shots continue to be the best way to combat the Omicron spread and to protect you and your loved ones. Data suggest that if the fully vaccinated (including boosted) become infected with Omicron, they tend to experience mild symptoms.

Articles
Don’t Rely on a Negative Coronavirus Test To See Family for Thanksgiving
Read this recent article from CNN
Articles
Get the Latest Information on COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Doses + Third Doses
On Monday, October 25, 2021 the CDC published an update to the Interim Clinical Considerations for Use of COVID-19 Vaccines with a focus on Booster Dose. Below are answers to commonly asked questions.
Press Releases
Third Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine Now Authorized
On August 13, 2021 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provided new recommendations for the mRNA (Pfizer and Moderna) COVID-19 vaccines for moderately to severely immunocompromised people. The CDC now recommends a third dose of the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for these individuals.

Be among the first to know

Enjoy the latest health updates from Tufts Medicine by signing up for our e-newsletter today.

Jump back to top