First Omicron Case Confirmed in Suburban Cook County

Other Possible Omicron Cases Currently Being Tested

Forest Park, IL – Cook County Department of Public Health announced today that the first known case of the Omicron variant in suburban Cook County was reported yesterday, December 14. The person is asymptomatic and has received at least two doses of the vaccine. There are other cases that are currently being genotyped for Omicron.

Omicron arrives while the Delta variant continues to surge in suburban Cook County. Recent Delta case counts have significantly increased in the days and weeks before the arrival of Omicron.

“As expected, Omicron has arrived in suburban Cook County and we must take every possible precaution to prevent this highly-contagious variant from spreading rapidly,” said Dr. Rachel Rubin, Co-Lead and Senior Medical Officer, Cook County Department of Public Health.  “Vaccinations, including booster shots, are vital. Masking indoors in all public spaces is mandated in the county and must continue. And we urge unvaccinated residents to not attend any holiday celebrations or social events during this time.”

For those gathering with individuals outside the household, indoor masking, physically distancing, and proper hand washing are urged. It is also advisable to test all participants 2-3 days before gathering with others and within 24 hours of the event.

Boosters for all residents ages 16 and up are currently available throughout suburban Cook County. To find the most convenient vaccine location visit the CCDPH calendar or MyShotCookCounty .