Omicron variant now makes up about 3% of US COVID-19 cases, CDC says

The CDC estimates that the new omicron variant of the coronavirus now makes up about 3% of COVID-19 cases reported nationwide.

Canines in California trained to sniff out COVID from old socks

Dogs in Concord, Calif. are being trained to sniff COVID from old socks. The goal is to eventually use these COVID-sniffing canines in schools.

'We're overwhelmed': Minnesota hospitals run full page ad in newspapers

In a letter running in newspapers across Minnesota, hospital leaders say they are sounding the alarm about the stresses the COVID-19 pandemic continues to place on the hospital system in the state.

2nd Minnesota student wins $100,000 scholarship for COVID vaccine

Parents must enter their child by 11:59 p.m. Monday, Dec. 13 to be eligible for the final $100,000 college scholarship drawing for student COVID vaccines.

Minnesota’s 2nd omicron case confirmed at MSU-Mankato

Minnesota’s second case of the COVID-19 omicron variant has been confirmed in a person associated with Minnesota State University Mankato. They were vaccinated, had recently traveled within the U.S., and their symptoms have resolved.

Omicron variant appearing milder than delta, South African doctors say

In the two weeks since omicron first was reported in Southern Africa, other doctors have shared similar stories. All caution that it will take many more weeks to collect enough data to be sure, their observations and the early evidence offer some clues.

In US, more than 200 million people now fully vaccinated against COVID-19

Over 200 million people in the U.S. — or about 60% of the total population — are now fully vaccinated against COVID-19, even as cases and hospitalizations climb.

Can't find a COVID booster shot? Blame the worker shortage

This week, Minnesota health officials launched a campaign encouraging people to get their COVID-19 booster shots in time for holiday gatherings later this month.

Omicron basics: Mayo Clinic expert on severity, vaccine resilience

“Let me make this clear, we can no longer eradicate this virus and this disease. Your great great great grandchildren will be getting immunized against this disease," said Director/Founder of Mayo Clinic Vaccine Research Group, Dr. Greg Poland.

Vaccine mandates aren't causing staff shortage, Mayo and Allina say

Two of Minnesota's biggest health care systems, Mayo Clinic and Allina Health, refute claims that their COVID-19 vaccine mandates are causing a staff shortage that has the state scrambling for answers.

Pfizer: COVID-19 booster offers protection against omicron in early study

Pfizer said its COVID-19 booster dose may protect against the new omicron variant, but the initial two doses appear significantly less effective.

WHO: Kids in 5-14 age group account for Europe's highest COVID-19 rates

The WHO's office for Europe said children in the 5 to 14 age group now account for the highest rates of reported COVID-19 infections in the region.

List: Minnesota schools extending winter break due to pandemic impacts

Several schools in Minnesota have extended their winter breaks as districts throughout the state continue to deal with COVID-19 surges and staffing shortages.

First Georgia case of omicron variant identified, quarantined in New Jersey

A Georgia resident who is currently in New Jersey has tested positive for the omicron variant of COVID-19, the Georgia Department of Public Health announced late Friday.

Israel health officials confirm 7 omicron COVID-19 cases, 27 others suspected

Israel's Health Ministry says it has confirmed seven cases of the new omicron variant of the coronavirus, stoking fears of a pending surge in infections.

Omicron COVID-19 variant detected in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has confirmed its first case of the omicron variant of the coronavirus in an unvaccinated person who returned from Nigeria.