Omicron in O.C. – how new variant will impact Irvine and beyond

While mysteries of the virus still remain, action is being taken locally to prevent severe outbreaks at educational institutions, including UC Irvine. On Wednesday, Dec. 22, the University of California system announced that proof of COVID-19 booster shots would be required upon return from the holiday break. In Irvine, UC Irvine Chancellor Howard Gillman, in a statement, acknowledged that returning to campus directly following winter break “is not prudent,” announcing that the first two weeks after the holiday would be held remotely.