Based on current data, antigen and PCR based tests used to detect SARS-CoV-2 will detect the Omicron variant. Omicron can only be specifically identified via whole genome sequencing (WGS). Omicron may produce a pattern of PCR results termed S gene dropout or S gene target failure (SGTF) due to mutations in the S gene, which directs production of the spike protein. Laboratories will still report this pattern as a positive result but is highly suspicious for the Omicron variant; clinical laboratories should report any PCR-positive SGTF results immediately to OCHCA.
Providers should ask about international travel in patients they are assessing or testing for COVID-19. While all positive COVID-19 cases are reportable, positive cases who recently traveled internationally or had exposure to persons with recent international travel should be reported immediately to OCHCA. PCR testing is preferred at this time for suspect cases with recent international travel, as it affords an opportunity to do WGS on the initial specimen.
Yesterday, the CDC Director updated booster guidance to recommend that all those who are > 18 years of age and are at least 6 months after a primary mRNA COVID-19 vaccine series SHOULD receive a booster. Additional CDC guidance regarding booster doses can be found here.
