More changes to return-to-office plans due to COVID-19, “rampant” spread of the Omicron variant in Connecticut, and a new program to help essential workers in Connecticut impacted by the virus are among the top business news items this morning.
National
The major spike in COVID-19 infections driven by the Omicron variant is spurring businesses to again reconsider their return-to-office plans. Some companies have begun taking steps such as mandating that employees get booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccine before returning to the office, while others are ramping up testing efforts to keep infected employees home.
Connecticut
Governor Ned Lamont says Connecticut is experiencing “rampant community spread” of the Omicron variant after the state’s daily positivity rate reached 21.5 percent on Monday, with hospitalizations up by 301 since Thursday. Lamont and Connecticut Public Health Commissioner Dr. Manisha Juthani encouraged residents to continue making efforts to mitigate the spread of the virus through actions such as wearing a mask indoors and getting vaccinated.
Connecticut has launched a $34 million program to support essential workers impacted by COVID-19 during the early months of the pandemic. The program is open to workers who upheld vital services and funds can be used to cover medical expenses, lost wages, or burial costs.
