Omicron variant is in the U.S. Here's what that could mean for Idaho

By Samantha Wright,

Gemma Gaudette

Published December 1, 2021 at 1:26 PM MST

Doctors and nurses treating COVID-19 patients at St. Luke’s Health System in Boise.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified the country'sfirst confirmed case of the Omicron coronavirus variant in a California patient. The World Health Organization has designated Omicron a variant of concern, stating it poses a very high global risk.

So what does that mean for Idaho? Idaho Matters talks with two local medical experts to answer your COVID-19 questions.

Dr. David Pate, former CEO of St. Luke's Health System and a current member of the Idaho Coronavirus Task Force
Dr. Frank Johnson, the Chief Medical Officer for St. Luke’s Boise, Elmore County and McCall

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Samantha Wright

As Senior Producer of our live daily talk show Idaho Matters, I’m able to indulge my love of storytelling and share all kinds of information (I was probably a Town Crier in a past life!). My career has allowed me to learn something new everyday and to share that knowledge with all my friends on the radio.

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Gemma Gaudette

Hi! I’m Gemma Gaudette, the host of the award-winning show, Idaho Matters. During the day you’ll find me researching and writing about all the fascinating topics we tackle on our show. And of course, at noon, each weekday you’ll find me live behind the microphone as Idaho Matters airs.

See stories by Gemma Gaudette