The brand new Omicron variant of the coronavirus that’s spreading during components of southern Africa has involved public health officials and politicians throughout the globe. Markets, too, seem spooked by the development, as Friday’s abbreviated trading session saw the Dow, NASDAQ, and S&P 500 all tumble greater than 2%.

In response, President Joe Biden has ordered new air go back and forth restrictions on South Africa and 7 other international locations. The restrictions will go into impact on Monday, and will not observe to U.S. voters looking for to come house. Biden stated in a written commentary issued on Friday that “the information about this new variant must make clearer than ever why this pandemic will not end except now we have global vaccinations.”

The president is spending the Thanksgiving vacation on Nantucket, where he held a quick gaggle with reporters on Friday afternoon.

“I’ve determined that we’re gonna be cautious [and] make certain there’s no shuttle to and from South Africa and 6 [sic] other nations in that region,” said Biden. “We don’t be aware of loads in regards to the variant except for that it is of significant difficulty.”

One reporter requested Biden his response to markets sinking.

“Expected,” he said. “They always do when Covid rises.”

“Does it concern you in any respect?”

“In no way,” Biden spoke back.

Any other requested why Biden is waiting unless Monday to put the commute restrictions into impact. “Why no longer an immediate ban?”

“Because that was once the advice coming from my clinical group,” he spoke back.

Another reporter asked, “What do you say to questions about whether bans create an incentive for international locations not to come ahead with new variants, that you just’re penalized for–”

“That’s ridiculous,” Biden shot back. “As a result of that you may’t conceal the variants. It’s no longer like somebody might cover the fact that there’s a brand new variant.”

The president again reiterated the necessity for Americans to get vaccinated in opposition to Covid-19.

“right Here’s the deal,” he stated. “Every American who’s not been vaccinated, must be accountable and be vaccinated from age 5 years and up, number one. Quantity two, everybody eligible for booster photographs should get the booster shot straight away upon being eligible. That’s the minimum that everybody should be doing.”

He delivered, “I believe it’s a patriotic duty.”

Lastly, a reporter requested Biden if he’s making an allowance for any extra mandates related to Covid-19.

“No,” he mentioned. “No longer at the moment.”

Watch above via CNN.

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