Understand SC

MUSC expert on the omicron variant, future of the pandemic

Episode Summary

Michael Sweat, director of the Medical University of South Carolina’s Center for Global Health, breaks down what is and isn’t known about the omicron variant right now.

Episode Notes

There’s a new variant dominating pandemic-related headlines right now. You've probably heard of it — and you probably have some questions. We’re getting into some of those today. 

The omicron variant was discovered in South Africa and reported to the World Health Organization Nov. 24. Two days later, the WHO deemed it a variant of concern. 

The U.S. recorded its first case of the variant Wednesday, Dec. 1. 

Today, Michael Sweat, director of the Medical University of South Carolina’s Center for Global Health, helps us break down what is and isn’t known about the omicron variant right now. We also discussed the state of the pandemic overall, the progress that’s been made in treating the virus and the importance of vaccinations and boosters. 

For more on the pandemic in South Carolina visit our COVID-19 Dashboard

More coverage: