Missouri reports 1st presumed case of omicron virus variant

ST. LOUIS (AP) – Missouri health officials are reporting the state’s first presumed case of the omicron coronavirus variant in St. Louis.

The St. Louis Health Department on Friday said its waiting for confirmation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The St. Louis resident recently traveled within the U.S. Scientists are still learning about the new variant, including whether it is more contagious and whether it is resistant to vaccines.

Dr. Mati Hlatshwayo Davis, health care director for St. Louis, said the health department was notified of the case at noon Friday.

She could not release any other information about the patient but said there was no concern about the person’s current condition.