Anthony Fauci predicts difficult weeks for the country because of Omicron

U.S. Chief Infectious Disease Officer Anthony Fauci predicts a rise in coronavirus cases with increased burden on U.S. hospitals as the omicron strain spreads.

“Unfortunately, I think it’s going to happen. We’re going to see a significant strain on the hospital system in some parts of the country, especially in areas where vaccination rates are low. It’s going to be a challenging few weeks as we get deeper into the winter season,” Fauci said, responding in an interview with CNN when asked if the U.S. was facing “new disease records.

Fauci reiterated that standard two-part mRNA vaccines lose significantly in effectiveness against omicron, but revaccination with a booster dose restores protection.

“If you want optimal protection, revaccinate,” he said.

Fauci acknowledged that scientists, while aware of the coronavirus’ ability to mutate, could not predict the emergence of “omicron.”