On Monday, Bowser denied acting prematurely, saying the district’s virus plans were designed so that they could be voted up or down depending on flowing circumstances.
“I don’t regret moving forward with the virus,” she said. “If the conditions warrant, we have changed our interventions and are doing it again.”
The surge in infections and the steady advance of the Omicron variant across the country was reflected in Washington and the intertwined communities of northern Virginia and southern Maryland. Last week, DC reported record-breaking infection rates for two consecutive days, and Maryland Governor Larry Hogan and DC Councilor Trayon White both reported positive tests in the past few days.
Much is unknown about the Omicron coronavirus variant, including whether it causes more or less serious illness. Scientists say Omicron is spreading even more easily than other coronavirus strains, including Delta, and is expected to become dominant in the US early next year. Early studies suggest that those vaccinated need a booster dose to best prevent omicron infection, but even without the extra dose, the vaccination should still provide strong protection from serious illness and death.
Public concern in the district has led to long lines in front of local testing facilities over the past week. Bowser said the city will offer expanded locations for testing and vaccinations. The city also requires that all DC government employees be both fully vaccinated and receive booster vaccinations.
