Bennett: Omicron coming; vaccinate your kids, work at home where possible

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett says Israel’s fifth coronavirus wave “has begun.” He says the government is doing everything to buy the country time before the Omicron variant becomes widespread in the country.

“I believe within three to four weeks, perhaps sooner, we will see a jump in morbidity that will leave no room for doubt,” he says.

During this time, he says, it is crucial to vaccinate as many people as possible, and particularly children.

“Vaccines for children are safe, and they are the responsibility of parents,” he says. “Don’t leave your children vulnerable to Omicron.

“Every hour you wait is a wasted hour. After a first shot it will take children four to five weeks to be protected. If you wait for the wave to hit, it will be too late.”

He also urges business owners who can have employees work from home to do so.