State officials urge calm and emphasise vaccination and preventive measures

Minnesota has confirmed its first case of the Omicron COVID-19 variant in a resident who recently travelled to New York City. The individual, an adult male from Hennepin County, attended the Anime NYC 2021 convention at Manhattan’s Javits Centre from 19 to 21 November.

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) reported that the man developed mild symptoms on 22 November and tested positive two days later. His symptoms have since resolved, and he is following isolation protocols.

Governor Tim Walz acknowledged the development, describing it as “concerning but not surprising.” He urged Minnesotans to take precautions, saying, “Get vaccinated, wear masks indoors, and consider boosters. Together, we can slow the spread of this virus.”

Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm stressed the importance of established preventive measures. “We still have more to learn about Omicron, but we know that vaccination, masking, and testing remain our best defences,” he said.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul also addressed the case, describing it as “anticipated.” She noted that the infected individual was vaccinated and experienced only mild symptoms, which have already resolved. “This is not cause for alarm,” Hochul stated, adding, “We encourage anyone who attended the convention to get tested.”

Hochul assured New Yorkers that the state government is prepared for such developments. “We are in a much stronger position than at the pandemic’s start. No need to panic—just stay vigilant,” she said.

In related news, Colorado also reported its first Omicron case on the same day. The case involved a vaccinated individual who had recently returned from South Africa.

Officials across both states continue to emphasise vaccination, boosters, and adherence to public health guidelines as key to managing the spread of the new variant.