DECEMBER 3, 2021 – A case of omicron variant of COVID-19 in Minnesota was confirmed this week. Early reports say that omicron is highly contagious, maybe even more than the delta variant that’s now widespread across the U.S.

NH+C will review medical information on omicron as that information evolves. We follow guidance from CDC, Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in our safety procedures and our recommendations to patients and the community about COVID-19.

There is no change to NH+C’s COVID-19 policies or processes at this time.

As our knowledge of the omicron variant evolves, it’s especially important to keep up COVID precautions:

• GET VACCINATED. It’s your best protection against serious illness or death from COVID-19, including variants. Vaccine is widely available. Find options through the state's Vaccine Connector. Call NH+C to schedule first and second dose: 507-646-8019

• Get your booster. Booster shots are recommended for all adults. Find options through the state's Vaccine Connector.

• Isolate yourself if you’re sick with ANY symptom that may be COVID – even if you think it might be something else. You may have very mild symptoms, but you can still spread COVID to others who can get much sicker than you.

• Get tested, even if you’ve been vaccinated and even if you don’t have symptoms. The most important times to test are after you may have been exposed to the virus, or before you spend time with medically vulnerable people (like grandparents). Read about when to test, and different testing options. 

• Wear a mask and keep your distance in public, and indoors with others who don’t live in your household.

Pay extra attention to exposure through travel – yours and others’ – especially during the holidays.

Watch for updates on our COVID-19 page.