**Google News: Number of U.S. weekly COVID cases, hospitalizations decline as Omicron variant wanes**.
New COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in the United States are continuing to decline, a trend that has been observed for several weeks now. This decline is likely due to a combination of factors, including the waning of the Omicron variant, increased vaccination rates, and natural immunity from previous infections..
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the seven-day average of new COVID-19 cases has fallen by more than 40% since the peak of the Omicron wave in mid-January. The seven-day average of hospitalizations has also declined by more than 30% since the peak..
The decline in cases and hospitalizations is a positive sign, but it is important to remain vigilant and continue to take precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This includes getting vaccinated and boosted, wearing a mask in public indoor settings, and social distancing..
**What is the Omicron variant?**.
The Omicron variant is a highly transmissible variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that was first identified in South Africa in November 2021. The Omicron variant is more transmissible than previous variants, but it is less likely to cause severe disease. This is likely due to the fact that the Omicron variant has a number of mutations that make it less able to bind to and infect cells in the lungs..
**What are the symptoms of the Omicron variant?**.
The symptoms of the Omicron variant are similar to the symptoms of other variants of COVID-19. These symptoms include:.
* Fever or chills.
* Cough.
* Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
* Fatigue.
* Muscle or body aches.
* Headache.
* New loss of taste or smell.
* Sore throat.
* Congestion or runny nose.
* Nausea or vomiting.
* Diarrhea.
**How can I protect myself from the Omicron variant?**.
The best way to protect yourself from the Omicron variant is to get vaccinated and boosted. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent severe disease, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19..
In addition to vaccination, you can also protect yourself from the Omicron variant by taking the following precautions:.
* Wear a mask in public indoor settings.
* Social distance.
* Avoid large gatherings.
* Wash your hands frequently.
* Stay home if you are sick.
**What should I do if I test positive for COVID-19?**.
If you test positive for COVID-19, you should isolate yourself from others and contact your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will be able to provide you with guidance on how to care for yourself and when you can safely return to work or school..
**Conclusion**.
The decline in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in the United States is a positive sign, but it is important to remain vigilant and continue to take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. This includes getting vaccinated and boosted, wearing a mask in public indoor settings, and social distancing..
