The omicron variant of the COVID 19 virus is spreading rapidly across the United States, including this area… faster than many health officials thought it would. Just in a matter of a couple weeks, 70% of the new COVID cases are being attributed to omicron. Franklin County Health Officer, Dr. Bud Ransom says studies show that next to measles, it’s the most contagious virus that humans encounter. He urges extreme caution:
The first official case of omicron in Kansas was discovered in Franklin County on December 16th. COVID cases are now at an all time high in Franklin County. The Health Department reported 280 new cases, with 281 active cases, the highest case count throughout the entire pandemic. The CDC’s change in quarantine guidance allows cases to be considered ‘recovered’ sooner, reducing the active case count. Health officials want people to know that the virus spread in our County is very high and precautions should be taken.
