The Kansas Department of Health and Environment says it is continuing to monitor the COVID-19 omicron variant and its path around the globe.
Omicron has been found in 17 countries since Friday, but so far it has not been found anywhere in the United States. KDHE says it will “sequence” or test positive COVID-19 samples for omicron.
KDHE says Kansas is more prepared for the omicron variant than it was for the natural version and the variants that followed, including the delta strain that has been dominant since early summer. The agency says vaccines will offer protection against severe disease and death. Like Lyon County Public Health, the state recommends vaccines, mask use, proper hygiene, staying home if feeling sick and getting tested if residents are exposed to COVID or have symptoms.
Separately, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced a new permanent leader for KDHE less than two weeks after the state and former department director Lee Norman parted ways. Janet Stanek is currently serving in an acting capacity until the Kansas Senate decides on confirmation.
Stanek had previously served as the director of the State Employee Health Benefits Program. Before that, she had served more than 35 years in healthcare leadership positions in Kansas, Pennsylvania and New York.
Norman had served as KDHE’s department head since Kansas Governor Laura Kelly took office in 2019.
