Borders Close as New COVID-19 Variant Spreads

The US and several countries have imposed travel restrictions due to the Omicron variant, first identified in South Africa. Health experts are investigating its transmissibility and vaccine resistance, with results expected in a few weeks. President Biden urges Americans not to panic but to take precautions, emphasizing vaccination and booster shots as the best protection.

Which countries have implemented travel restrictions in response to the Omicron variant?

• South Africa, Brazil, India, and China

• US, Canada, UK, and Australia

• US, Japan, Israel, and Morocco

• Germany, France, Italy, and Spain

What are US health experts trying to determine about the Omicron variant?

• Its origin and history

• Its transmissibility and vaccine resistance

• Its impact on the economy

• Its effect on climate change

How long do experts expect it will take to understand the Omicron variant's characteristics?

• A year

• A few days

• A few weeks

• A few months

What is President Biden's advice to Americans regarding the Omicron variant?

• To remain calm and take precautions

• To ignore the variant completely

• To travel as much as possible

• To panic and stockpile supplies

What does President Biden suggest as the best protection against the Omicron variant?

• Wearing masks at all times

• Staying indoors indefinitely

• Getting fully vaccinated and a booster shot

• Avoiding all social interactions