Variations of the virus, coupled with waning immunity, have created what one health expert describes as a "six-month pattern," where COVID-19 cases spike during the summer and winter months.
Scientists don't know if omicron is more transmissible or dangerous than previous variants. So far, there is no indication it causes more severe disease.
The recommendation is a sharp change from holidays a year ago, when health officials warned against travel and all but the most limited family gatherings.
Lalo Alcaraz is part of a COVID Latino project with a goal of using art and social media to disseminate information – and counter misinformation – about COVID-19.