Just before Thanksgiving, the world learned about the omicron variant of COVID-19. At that time, the new variant had only been detected in South Africa. By Dec. 6, omicron had made its way into the state of Georgia, and now it is the most prevalent variant of coronavirus in the state and the country.
Currently, local school districts are in the final days of Christmas break, ready to open up classrooms next week as COVID case numbers surge.
By all accounts, omicron is more fast-spreading than delta, but the health impact is not as severe.
Dr. Jeremy Williams, Superintendent of Gainesville City Schools, released a statement Thursday, asking teachers and staff to keep contact with each other to a minimum when they return to work on Monday, Jan. 3.
Stan Lewis, Director of Communications for the Hall County School District, said Friday there are no plans to change current protocols for the county schools, where masking remains optional on all campuses.
"As always, we will continue to monitor conditions and react accordingly to ensure a positive and safe learning environment," Lewis said.
He also said the District installed nearly 80 additional UV treatment stations at schools. UV light is used as disinfectant.
