With the COVID-19 Omicron variant quickly spreading across Latin America, Venezuela is doing what it can to protect the country. 

Health experts say they are becoming increasingly concerned that a new surge in infections could arise following the recent relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions. 

When the pandemic began in March 2020, the country implemented a one-week on, one-week off system for businesses. 

But at the end of October 2021, Venezuela lifted most COVID-19 restrictions in an effort to kickstart the economy.

Diana Herrera owns a clothing store on Sabana Grande Boulevard in Caracas. She says the holiday shopping season is usually the most profitable time of year for her and, after more than a year of working under COVID-19 restrictions, she’s now allowed to open every week without restrictions. 

But Herrera fears the arrival of a new variant may change things for her.

“What worries me the most is having to close, because my family depends on this, my daily income. Closing again is complex,” Herrera said.

Patricia Valenzuela, Vice President of the Venezuelan Society of Infectious Diseases believes that with flights still operating and all stores and restaurants open, it’s only a matter of time before Omicron is reported in Venezuela. 

“For sure, Omicron will arrive, there is no doubt. Some cases were already identified in Brazil, and it can also enter by the south of the country like it happened with the Gamma variant,” Valenzuela said.

The Omicron coronavirus variant has already been detected in many countries including the U.S., Cuba, Chile, Argentina and Brazil.

The slow pace of Venezuela’s vaccination roll-out is also a concern. Fewer than 40 percent of Venezuelans have been fully vaccinated. 

The Venezuelan Academy of Medicine is urging the government to carefully monitor COVID-19 cases to allow early detection of the new variant. It’s also urging citizens to remain calm and increase safety measures. 

In a televised statement, Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro said the country will reinforce protocols for people entering the country through airports, ports and across borders. 

"We will evaluate the reality of the new variant and so Venezuela can take measures in time to defend ourselves and protect our people from the new varian," Maduro said.

So far, the Venezuelan government has confirmed the presence of the Gamma, Alpha and Lambda variants as well as Delta. 

In the streets of Caracas, some are worried about the new threat. 

“Here we are not even prepared for a flu, we are not prepared for anything,” said Caracas resident, Gustavo García.

For now, Venezuelans are enjoying an unrestricted holiday season, wishing that 2022 brings a healthier and better future for them and their families.

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