Public Health Ontario confirms first case of COVID-19 Omicron variant in Hamilton

Public Health Ontario Laboratory has confirmed one case of the COVID-19 Omicron variant in Hamilton.

HPHS says the patient recently returned from traveling to South Africa.

This marks Ontario’s 12th confirmed case of the Omicron variant.

Hamilton’s Public Health Services (HPHS) announced there were two suspected cases of the Omicron variant in Hamilton after two individuals tested positive for COVID-19 after returning from South Africa.

“It’s important for the community to remain calm and have confidence that all levels of government will follow the science as it relates to the Omicron variant. The best way you can prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to get fully vaccinated and keep your guard up by following the well-established public health measures including wearing a mask, maintaining physical distance, limiting close contacts, and staying home when you’re unwell. Hamilton Public Health Services remains committed to keeping the community updated in the coming days and weeks as we learn more about the Omicron variant,” said the Associate Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Ninh Tran, in a statement.

The city says there is a second case under investigation and it is in the process of being sequenced and expected in the coming days.