It's heeeeere

Whenever something pertaining to Minnesota makes national news, many residents and media members alike practically pee themselves. With the omicron variant of COVID-19 being the latest worldwide boogeyman, I can't help but wonder what those categories of Minnesotans are thinking given the latest developments.

A coronavirus infection involving the omicron variant has been identified in a Minnesotan who recently traveled to New York.

Genomic sequencing of samples from infected people identified the COVID-19 case, which Minnesota leaders said was inevitable given how quickly the omicron variant spreads.

"This news is concerning, but it is not a surprise," Gov. Tim Walz said. "We know that this virus is highly infectious and moves quickly throughout the world."

The infection involved a vaccinated man from Hennepin County who developed mild symptoms Nov. 22 and sought testing two days later. The man, who has recovered, spoke with state investigators and confirmed he traveled to New York City and attended the Anime NYC convention Nov. 19-21. He received a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine in early November.

Obviously there's still information being gathered about this strain, but the fact it was rumored to be able to bust through the booster (confirmed with this case here in Minneapolis) while many who have contracted it were experiencing mild symptoms presents an interesting dilemma for both health advisors and elected officials. They and their media lapdogs have already breathlessly touted this as a borderline plague and thus continue trying to shame the non-vaxxed into getting vaxxed, yet early indications are it doesn't even result in hospitalizations. Again, information is still fluid at this point, so it would be irresponsible of me to be too dismissive. 

One thing I can't help but wonder though. Suppose that the vast majority of omicron cases continue to result in mild symptoms. And what if, as with other strains, significant antibodies are built up, resulting in natural immunity (which isn't touted nearly enough, IMO). I'm not saying I desire to become mildly ill and thus will take all the precautions necessary (I'm getting boosted next week). But if this "perfect storm" I've laid out comes together, bullying people into getting fully vaccinated (which apparently now entails two jabs plus a booster) is going to be a tougher sell than ever before. 

Regardless, even if this variant is oversold, it won't quell the constant barrage from the army of Karens. 

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