In reaction to the discovery of the COVID-19 omicron strain, New York Democrat Governor Kathy Hochul announced a national emergency order on Friday.
The emergency order will continue until at least Jan. 15. Then, the decree will be evaluated, with the goal of increasing hospital capacity in New York.
New Restrictions Fall into Place
The government will use the “surge & flex system,” which permits the state health department to restrict non-essential (as well as non-urgent) medical treatments.
This occurs during circumstances when a hospital has less than 10% occupied bed capacity, as per a copy of the directive. The new hospital policies will go into effect on December 3rd.
While the omicron strain has yet to be found in New York, Governor Hochul indicated preparations must be taken. This is because the state is witnessing “warning indicators” of a potential surge in cases.
The Botswana Government says that the new COVID variant (named Omicron) was first detected in four patients who were FULLY VACCINATED for COVID. https://t.co/twfaWmK2Gu
— Robby Starbuck (@robbystarbuck) November 26, 2021
“To stop the spread of COVID-19 and battle the outbreak, we’ve taken unprecedented measures.”
“However, we’re still seeing warning signals of increases this season. Although the new omicron strain hasn’t been found in New York yet, it’s on its way,” Governor Hochul stated.
“As we enter into the colder months, I’m taking immediate steps today to boost hospital infrastructure and ensure our healthcare systems can face any challenges brought by the pandemic,” Hochul said.
“The vaccination remains one of our most powerful weapons in the fight against the outbreak. I urge every New Yorker to get immunized. If you’re already thoroughly vaccinated, get the booster.”
President Biden stated on Monday that travel from South Africa and seven other nations in the area would be restricted beginning Monday. The omicron variant features a “high number of alterations, some of which are problematic,” according to the World Health Organization.
Following the detection of variation B.1.1.529 (which looks to be extremely contagious amongst young folks), Biden will restrict travel from certain African countries, as advised by Dr. Anthony Fauci and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Biden has just announced a travel ban on 8 African nations due to the new Omicron variant of COVID.
Suddenly travel bans aren’t xenophobic?
Does this also apply to the illegals at the Southern Border or are they exempt as usual?
— Lauren Boebert (@laurenboebert) November 26, 2021
The New Strain was Found in South Africa
“This morning, I was updated on the omicron strain, which is spreading throughout South Africa, by my medical director advisor, Dr. Tony Fauci, and colleagues of our COVID response team,” Biden said in a release.
“I’m ordering further aviation restrictions on travel from South Africa, as well as seven other nations as a security precaution until we have more data. On November 29, these proposed regulations will enter into effect.”
President Biden pledged to take all necessary steps to protect Americans and end the outbreak. He urged Americans to keep receiving their vaccines.
“The information about this new strain should make it clearer than ever before why this outbreak will not be over until we have universal vaccinations,” Biden added.
