Omicron is the latest and potentially worst new variant of COVID-19.
Americans have been asking for another round of stimulus checks for some time now. Now, a new potentially deadly variant along with travel bans right before the holidays, they’re pushing even harder.
The World Health Organization deemed Omicron a variant of concern on Nov. 24. It derives out of South Africa.
Related: Scientists on the lookout for first case of Omicron COVID-19 variant in United States
The country is seeing an uptick in COVID-19 cases and it’s probably the new variant causing it. The official name of the variant is B.1.1.529.
The first sighting of the variant occurred from a sample tested on Nov. 9.
President Joe Biden’s response was to implement additional restrictions to flying from South Africa as well as seven other countries.
The restrictions begin Nov. 29 and he said the decision was guided by science and his medical team.
Related: Governor Hochul declares disaster emergency, clearing way for major COVID mitigation steps in coming weeks
Biden urged those who are unvaccinated to get the vaccine and those that qualify for a booster to get it.
Governor Kathy Hochul also declared a state of emergency for New York just before the holidays.
To help curb the spread of the Omicron variant, the executive order goes into effect Dec. 3.
Hochul stated that it has not been detected, but is coming.
What about additional stimulus aid?
Americans took to Twitter following the announcement of the new COVID-19 variant.
Related: New COVID Variant, B.1.1.529, could be the most dangerous yet as it spreads to Israel
With previous strains of COVID-19, the U.S. gave citizens stimulus checks to handle economic hardship caused by the pandemic.
Now, Americans want the help ago before the new variant hits the U.S.
There is no sign yet that President Biden plans to issue another stimulus check.
Despite that, some states are giving their residents that extra boost they need before the holidays.
Illinois Republican lawmakers recently proposed giving qualifying residents checks worth $200.
California is currently sending out checks for the second wave of the Golden Stimulus II package.
Related: You may get some cash before Christmas if you’re eligible and live in these cities or states
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