Due to the emergence of the novel omicron coronavirus strain, WHO is encouraging people aged 60 and over, including those who have been vaccinated, as well as those with impaired immune systems, to postpone forthcoming holiday travel plans.

The omicron variant has been designated as a "variant of concern due to preliminary evidence that it has numerous mutations and could increase the risk of reinfection," according to a recent WHO announcement. However, scientists are still trying to learn more about the new COVID variant, such as how transmissible it is, how well current vaccines work against it, and where its biggest hotspots are. Many of the solutions will not be revealed for at least a few weeks, just in time for Christmas.

President Biden announced further steps to battle COVID-19 last week, as the United States enters the winter months and the new strain emerges.

Pharmacies will increase appointment availability and will contact customers via email, text messaging, and phone calls to ensure that they receive their booster doses. Furthermore, Medicare will send a notification to 63 million Americans asking them to receive a booster shot. Biden stated that the government will collaborate with the AARP to assist the elderly in receiving booster injections.

President Biden also emphasized the need of vaccinating youngsters against the disease. The administration will launch family immunization clinics around the country to aid in this effort. Some will take place at community health facilities, while others will be mobile clinics that will allow health authorities to reach those who may not have access to dependable transportation.

Furthermore, Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program will pay healthcare practitioners to speak with families about the need for vaccinations.

In addition, the proposal would include a requirement that private insurance companies cover the whole cost of at-home coronavirus testing kits. In January, the Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor, and the Treasury will issue detailed guidelines on the number of tests that will be covered.

People without private insurance will receive 50 million free testing kits from the government.