Could the omicron variant cause another surge in Austin-Travis County?

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- As cases of the omicron variant continue to pop up across the United States, many are wondering if the new variant, first discovered in South Africa, is going to overpower delta.Health leaders introduced a new metric for the COVID-19 risk-based guidelines. Why now?While the exact transmission rate of omicron is unknown right now, Dr. Desmar Walkes, the local health authority, told local leaders this week it "seems to be spreading more rapidly." Health leaders believe omicron may