COVID-19 was detected nearly two years ago.But its contagious variants – like alpha and delta – have caused alarm.Now, health officials are monitoring a new variant that could be putting up a big fight. And we're sure you have plenty of questions about it, so let's get right to it...
The deets...The variant's named omicron (nothing to do with the French President). And was first detected in South Africa earlier this month. It’s helped drive a jump in cases there. And has now been detected in several places around the world (like Botswana, the Netherlands, Denmark, the UK, Australia, and Hong Kong).
Is it more dangerous? This is the WHO's fifth “variant of concern.” But experts say it's acting differently than other variants. And that it has an unusually high number of mutations, which could make it more transmissible. Early evidence also suggests omicron can increase the “risk of reinfection.”
So, do vaccines protect against it? It's unclear. Some experts say the current vaccines should be effective at preventing hospitalization or death. But others say omicron's erratic nature (given its many mutations) could be resistant to vaccines. Moderna is already looking into boosting its boosters to kick omicron to the curb.
What does this mean for travel? The US and the EUare restricting travel from South Africa (and several other southern African countries) –with some exceptions. Other countries like Japan and India have announced new measures, including stricter testing and screening of travelers. And Israel is banning all foreigners in an effort to curb the spread.
What are people saying? US health officials are urging for calm as they get “better information” on the new variant. New York has declared a state of emergency in preparation for a potential spike in cases.And the EU is encouraging social distancing, vaccinations, boosters, and other measures as scientists monitor omicron.
And what about South Africa? An African Union official said the variant could have been prevented had it not been for “the world's failure” to provide equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines.And the South African gov said they’re basically being “punished”with travel restrictions for discovering the new variant...and warning the world.
theSkimm
Health officials have been ringing the alarm about a potential fifth wave in the US. Now, they worry that omicron could already be in the US– serving as a reminder to keep protecting yourself.
And Also...This
Whose family is seeing accountability…
Ahmaud Arbery’s. Last week, a jury found three men guilty of murdering Arbery in Georgia. In February 2020, former police officer Gregory McMichael and his son, Travis, chased and shot Arbery down, killing the 25-year-old Black man while he was on a jog. A third man, William “Roddie” Bryan, helped corner Arbery and recorded the shooting. Arbery’s family called his murder a “modern-day lynching.” And his killing fueled protests for racial justice. Throughout the trial, lawyers for the McMichaels and Bryan argued that the men – who are white – acted in self-defense. And that they suspected Arbery was a burglar. But prosecutors said the men provoked the murder and that there’s zero evidence Arbery had committed any crimes. After about 11 hours of deliberations, a nearly all-white jury found the three men guilty. Arbery’s mother, Wanda Cooper-Jones, said her son could now rest in peace after a “long fight.”
What’s next: Attorneys for the McMichaels and Bryan say they plan to appeal. For now, they each face life in prison. And a judge will determine if that’s with or without parole.
Who people will miss...
Virgil Abloh. Yesterday, the legendary designer died after a two-year private battle with cancer. He was 41. Abloh was born in Illinois and earned degrees in engineering and architecture before pivoting to fashion. Throughout his career, he worked with several brands and artists – including Nike, Evian, Kanye West, and Kid Cudi. In 2012, Abloh launched his own luxury streetwear line, Off-White. And six years later, he became Louis Vuitton’s first Black artistic director. In 2019, Abloh was diagnosed with cardiac angiosarcoma – a rare cancer that affects the heart. He had undergone several treatments all while overseeing his brands. Tributes on social media honored the trailblazing fashion pioneer and "thoughtful creative genius." LVMH’s chairman called him “a visionary.”
Stephen Sondheim. On Friday, the Broadway titan died in his Connecticut home. He was 91. Born in New York, Sondheim’s career as a composer and lyricist spanned more than six decades. His work included “West Side Story,” “Gypsy,” “Into the Woods,” and many other Broadway faves. Throughout his career, he won eight Grammys, eight Tonys, one Oscar, a Pulitzer Prize, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Outside of musical theatre, he also composed tunes for films – including “Stavisky” and “Dick Tracy.” Tributes on social media remembered Sondheim as a giant. And yesterday, Broadway honored Sondheim with a musical tribute.
What’s entering a new chapter…
Barbados. Tonight, the Caribbean island nation’s saying ‘bye’ to the British Commonwealth and removing Queen Elizabeth II as its head of state. The former British colony will officially be a republic. And chose a woman as its first-ever president. Meet: Sandra Mason, who believes "the time has come to fully leave our colonial past behind."
Air fryers are one of the ~literal~ hottest gifts of the ‘21 holiday season. Cue that one friend who won't stop bragging about theirs. You know the one. But...what do they do, exactly? We partnered with Best Buy to see how they actually work.
Turns out, they don’t fry at all. They circulate hot air around food to cook (read: crisp) it quickly. Good news if that sounds good: More range ovens are adding an air fryer setting. An A+ LG one is aaaaactually 10% off at Best Buy right now. It’s the perfect holiday present for the home chef in your life. Even if that’s you. Do it to it.
Skimm Picks
Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. 50% off everything you need to keep your home safe and sound. Thanks to SimpliSafe. They’re offering Skimm’rs half off their award-winning security system. Which includes HD cameras, locks, and every sensor you could ever need. Peace of mind, is that you?*
2. 30% off bags, boots, and more fall faves. Madewell’s really coming in hot this holiday season. Power through your gift list with their knits, jewelry, and personalized totes and crossbodies. Then snag a few obsess-worthy goodies for yourself. Shop now.*
3. And even more sales you can shop to keep on saving. Normal Mondays = boring. Cyber Monday = hugely exciting. Check out our guide on what to buy before the day is over. Go go go.
4. Our fave things to help you drink smarter during the holidays. We pulled together some of the best alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to cheers with during the season. Pinkies up.
5. What we’re shopping on Amazon. Maybe you’re still going hard on Cyber Monday, or maybe you’re grabbing some last-minute holiday gifts. Either way, our Amazon storefront has it all.
We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.
Never give up...Michele P (MO). She landed a job in her field after two years of searching. Now, she’s officially a global and academic advisor at a university.
What’s your sign...Markie M (MI). She launched an astrology business called Sukha By Markie. Their goal is to make astrology readings more accessible. Check it out.
*Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
Skimm More
There are only a few no-fail gifts, but a candle is one of them. We rounded up 18 (affordable) candles, perfect for when you want to spruce up a room or be calm in one of the busiest times of year. Wax on, wax off.
And if you’re looking for other smart ways to spend your time...
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