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Omicron variant detected in multiple Kentucky counties, Gov. Beshear says

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Posted at 6:30 PM, Dec 17, 2021
and last updated 2021-12-18 13:44:09-05

FRANKFORT, Ky. (LEX 18) — Kentucky has confirmed its first case of the omicron variant.

According to Gov. Andy Beshear, the variant has now been detected in Kenton, Campbell, Fayette, and Jefferson Counties.

Dr. Steven Stack, Commissioner for the Kentucky Department of Health, says the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine (plus booster) should be very effective against omicron. 17% of Kentuckians are now fully vaccinated and boosted. 62% are fully vaccinated.

The news comes as the latest Kentucky COVID-19 report shows the fourth straight day of 2,000 or more new cases.

2,582 new cases were reported Friday, 35 more Kentuckians have died from the virus, and the positivity rate is the highest it's been in a week at 8.94%.

This is a developing story.