Speaking Monday, Biden said it was inevitable that the new variant would reach the U.S., but he also said the country has the tools necessary to protect Americans — particularly the approved vaccines and booster shots. He also encouraged everyone to get back to wearing face masks in all indoor public settings. “If people are vaccinated and wear their mask, there’s no need for lockdowns,” he said.
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Biden [restricted] travel from South Africa and seven other countries in southern Africa in a bid to give scientists time to learn more about the new variant, and for more Americans to get vaccinated. Dr. Fauci, the president’s Covid-19 adviser, said earlier that limiting travel from countries where omicron was identified “buys you a couple of weeks.”
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention broadened its recommendation for booster shots to include all adults. The agency previously approved boosters for all adults, but only recommended them for those 50 years and older or living in long-term care settings.