OMAHA — On Nov. 26, the World Health Organization classified omicron as a variant of concern. On Dec. 1, the first confirmed case of omicron was found in the United States. Additional cases have since been found, including six omicron cases in Nebraska and counting.

What we know about the omicron variant is changing rapidly. But methods of COVID-19 prevention remain the same for omicron:

Get vaccinated (and get a booster if you’re eligible)
Get tested if you have symptoms
Wear a well-fitting mask in public places
Choose outdoors over indoors whenever possible
Wash your hands frequently
Practice physical distancing
Disinfect high-touch surfaces

UNMC infectious diseases expert James Lawler, MD, executive director of international programs and innovation at the UNMC Global Center for Health Security, explains the situation as of Nov. 30 in THIS VIDEO.

Additionally, UNMC is updating its guidance on international travel as the federal government changes testing requirements.