New COVID variant causing concern in the hub city

JACKSON, TN (WNBJ) - With the news of the new Omicron COVID -19 variant circling the globe, some in the hub city are taking action and getting their booster shot at the health department.

“A lot of folks are talking about the Omicron variant right now with COVID-19. Right now, we are waiting and seeing,” said Mallory Cooke, the Public Information Officer with the Jackson-Madison Co. Regional Health Depart.

Health officials at the Jackson-Madison County Regional Health Department say it’s a waiting game at this point.

“We are waiting for more information from the CDC, the World Health Organization, Tennessee Department of Health, and whenever we get more information, we will relay that,” said Mallory Cooke, the Public Information Officer with the Jackson-Madison Co. Regional Health Depart.

One resident bringing her sister to the health department to get her booster says the new variant is a little nerve-racking.

“We know nothing about it so this may be worst than any of the others or it may not be as bad, but it is a concern,” said Carolyn Russom, a Jackson resident.

Another Madison County resident believes everyone should get the vaccine or booster so they can protect themselves and others.

“I just think we are going to have these viruses around us all the time from now on and we just live with what we got. I just think everyone ought to get one if they can,” said Neva Bryant, a Beech Bluff resident.

Next week the Jackson – Madison County Regional Health Department will be starting some new hours for their vaccine clinic. Starting Monday, December 6th, the health department will be open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.