Dec 21, 2021 - Health

First confirmed U.S. Omicron death recorded in Texas

Noah Garfinkel

People wait and sign waivers ahead of a Covid-19 vaccine clinic in Houston. — People wait and sign waivers ahead of a Covid-19 vaccine clinic in Houston, Texas. Photo: Brandon Bell/Getty Images.

The first confirmed death in the U.S. from the Omicron variant was reported in Texas' Harris County on Monday.

Why it matters: The man who died was in his 50s, unvaccinated and had previously been infected with COVID-19, per a press release.

The big picture: The CDC reported on Monday that Omicron accounted for 73% of recent COVID-19 cases in the U.S.

The first Omicron variant death in the world was reported in Britain in December.

What they're saying: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the patient’s family, and we extend our deepest sympathies,” said Barbie Robinson, Harris County Public Health Executive Director.

"We urge all residents who qualify to get vaccinated and get their booster shot if they have not already," Robinson added.

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First confirmed U.S. Omicron death recorded in Texas

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