University Health’s Chief Medical Officer provides answers to the most frequently asked questions about COVID-19 amid the Omikron surge

SAN ANTONIO – The Chief Medical Officer of University Health, Dr. Bryan Alsip, answered some of the most frequently asked questions about COVID-19 and the new variant of Omicron that is now the majority of new cases.

The first video in the player above has answers to the following questions about Omicron prevention and testing for COVID-19.

• Why did the CDC cut the time between the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine and boosters to 5 months?

• Is it true that cloth masks do not protect against the Omicron variant, but only N95s?

• Will the COVID-19 vaccines even protect us from Omicron in the event of further groundbreaking infections?

• Some people get a second or even a third booster shot – is that a good idea?

• Is it possible that we will need another COVID-19 booster soon?

• Some parents still have concerns about vaccinating their children against COVID-19. What do we know about security?

• Is it true that home COVID-19 tests are more accurate if you dab your throat instead of your nose?

• Can a PCR test test positive for COVID-19 if it really is flu?

• How long should I wait to be tested after exposure to COVID-19?

• What if I have COVID-19 symptoms but can’t get a test?

• Can I go to an emergency room for a COVID-19 test?

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In the second video from the university hospital, Alsip answered the following questions about Omicron infections and treatment:

• How does Paxlovid, Pfizer’s Covid pill work, and when will it be available?

• If someone tests positive and has no symptoms, how should they be quarantined or isolated if they are living with others?

• Can you tell which variant of COVID-19 you have from the symptoms?

• How can you tell Omicron from the flu or Omicron from seasonal allergies?

• How worrisome is “Flurona” – a co-infection with COVID-19 and flu?

• Can you get Omicron and Delta at the same time?

• If Omicron is milder, shouldn’t we just get it and get it over with?

• Do we expect this wave to be different from the last three?

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