Describing Omicron as “a cause for concern, not a cause for panic”, Biden said that he would unveil a plan on Thursday for tackling the virus this winter “not with shutdowns and lockdowns, but with more widespread vaccinations, boosters, testing and more”.

He added: “If people are vaccinated and wear their masks, there’s no need for lockdowns.”

On Monday, by his order, bans entered into force for travelers from South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique and Malawi.

Although there is no report of Omicron cases in the United States so far, Biden´s administration tries to step out to halt the spread and thus make a difference compared to former President Donald Trump, highly criticized for his chaotic response to the pandemic.

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