Hochul announces 8 confirmed cases of omicron variant in NY

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — Gov. Kathy Hochul Saturday announced three more cases of the omicron variant for a total of eight confirmed cases in New York State.

All three of the new cases are from New York City, for a total of seven New York City residents and one from Suffolk County confirmed to have the Omicron variant.

Hochul says the cases appear to be unrelated.

"We knew the Omicron variant was coming and we expect to see more cases. But let me be clear: We are not defenseless." Governor Hochul said.

Hochul said we have the tools to help prevent the spread of this deadly virus and urges those to get their vaccine, booster shot and wear a mask.