Biden warns Omicron spreading and unvaccinated at risk this winter

Biden warns Omicron spreading and unvaccinated at risk this winter U.S. President Joe Biden warned on Thursday that the Omicron variant of the coronavirus is going to spread more rapidly in the United States and that a winter of severe illness and death awaits the unvaccinated. Reuters Reuters

WASHINGTON, Dec 16 (Reuters) - U.S. President Joe Biden warned on Thursday that the Omicron variant of the coronavirus is going to spread more rapidly in the United States and that a winter of severe illness and death awaits the unvaccinated.

Getting an update on the pandemic from top health advisers, Biden also said it is past time for people to get booster shots and urged them to do so as quickly as possible.

“We are looking at a winter of severe illness and death” for the unvaccinated, Biden said.

At least 36 states have reported confirmed Omicron cases, officials from the Centers for Disease Control said on Wednesday.

“If you’re vaccinated and have your booster shot, you’re protected from severe illness and death," Biden said.  ....

“Get your booster shot. It’s critically important," he said.