ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Health experts have confirmed that the omicron variant has been detected in Orange County’s wastewater.

While the delta variant is still causing the most serious cases of COVID-19, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings urged people not to be complacent.

“We need to remain cautious and careful in order to combat COVID-19. The fight against COVID is not over,” Demings said.

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READ: The Omicron variant has been detected in the wastewater of a 2nd local county

With a lot of people expected to fly in and out of Orlando International Airport for Christmas, Orange County Health officer Dr. Raul Pino said Central Florida could see cases of the variant in the next week.

“We should be vigilant about omicron so we can better assess that issue, but our fight is with delta, delta is what’s still here,” Pino said.

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Omicron COVID-19 variant On Nov. 26, the World Health Organization classified a new variant, B.1.1.529, as a “variant of concern” and named it omicron. (WFTV.com News Staff)

“We should be vigilant about Omicron so we can better assess that issue, but our fight is with Delta, Delta is what’s still here”,  Pino said.

County leaders recommend that residents follow CDC health and safety guidelines when traveling or attending events.

READ: Seminole County extending COVID-19 vaccine events after omicron variant detected in wastewater

The continuous practice of safety measures, testing and vaccinations are some of the best ways to control the spread of the coronavirus.

Orange County Government’s Health Services Department continues to provide COVID-19 services at Barnett Park, seven days a week, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.

More information on Orange County’s coronavirus response can be found here.

Study: Pfizer shots 70% effective against COVID-19 omicron hospitalization (NCD)

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