Biden: "Omicron is Not a Panic Factor... Vaccination is Effective"

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] "It is a cause for concern but not a reason for panic. Get vaccinated. Get a booster shot." On the 19th (local time), U.S. President Joe Biden repeatedly urged vaccination, stating that the new COVID-19 variant Omicron is not a cause for panic.

On the day before the first anniversary of his inauguration, President Biden said at a press conference, "The past year has been a year of challenges."

He acknowledged, "I know there is a lot of frustration and fatigue in this country. The reason is COVID-19," but drew a line by saying, "Omicron is a cause for concern but not a reason for panic." He also mentioned that the U.S. is in a better position to cope with COVID-19 through vaccinations and other measures.

President Biden emphasized, "We have the tools: vaccines, booster shots, masks, tests, treatments," and said, "Because vaccination is effective, we must continue current vaccination efforts." He requested, "Get vaccinated. And get a booster shot."

Despite the rapid spread of the highly contagious Omicron, he reaffirmed that there would be no economic lockdowns or school shutdowns. He said, "There are almost no schools closed due to COVID-19. More than 95% are open," adding, "Over time, it is highly likely to rise again from 95% to 98%, 99%."

Regarding criticism that more COVID-19 testing should have been conducted earlier in the pandemic, he responded, "We are doing more now."