Omicron is finally in retreat.

More and more states have passed a peak in new coronavirus cases in recent days, as glimmers of progress have spread from a handful of eastern cities to much of the country. By the end of last week, the country was averaging about 720,000 new cases a day, down from about 807,000 last week. New coronavirus hospital admissions have also leveled off.

The U.S. is not in the clear yet. It continues to identify far more infections a day than during any prior surge, creating havoc for hospitals and businesses in small towns. Deaths continue to mount, with more than 2,100 announced most days. Still, the decline in new cases offered a sense of relief to virus-weary Americans. Here’s what scientists know about Omicron.

Did you get a breakthrough infection? Vaccinated people may now have “hybrid” immunity, but experts still encourage precautions.

Courtesy NYTs

Several friends fully vaxxed getting breakthroughs from kids in preschool.