Statement from the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology about the Emergence of the Omicron Coronavirus Variant

Statement attributable to APIC 2021 President, Ann Marie Pettis, BSN, RN, CIC, FAPIC

Arlington, Va., November 30, 2021 - "With the emergence of a new coronavirus variant called Omicron, the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) urges all Americans to get COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters, as recommended by their healthcare professionals.

"COVID-19 vaccines remain a key weapon in our defense against COVID-19 and its new variants and provide considerable protection against severe illness and hospitalization. By getting the COVID vaccine and booster, practicing physical distancing, wearing face coverings in crowded spaces, and frequent handwashing, we stand the best chance of stopping the spread of COVID-19 and its variants.

"While the scientific community gains more understanding about the transmissibility and severity of illness caused by the Omicron variant, every member of the public must do their part by stepping up efforts to ensure that all eligible Americans receive the COVID-19 vaccination and booster and continue to follow public health recommendations about masking, physical distancing, and hand hygiene."

The mission of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) is to advance the science and practice of infection prevention and control. APIC's more than 15,000 members develop and direct infection prevention and control programs that save lives and improve the bottom line for healthcare facilities. APIC advances its mission through patient safety, education, implementation science, competencies and certification, advocacy, and data standardization. Visit us at www.apic.org.

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Media Contacts: Aaron Cohen, 301-633-6773, [email protected] or Liz Garman, 202-454-2604, [email protected]