Here we go again. And again. And again.

The coronavirus is becoming less of a pandemic than a way of life. Just when we think we’ve turned a corner, here comes another wave.

This time, the variant is known as the omicron, which first popped up in South Africa — resulting in travel bans from various nations to the United States — and has now possibly infected people in Canada, the Netherlands, Israel and China.

Soon, scientists will run out of letters in the Greek alphabet to name these variants.

Some health experts have suggested that COVID-19 will never quite disappear as other pandemic-causing illnesses of the past have, but rather will become something that pops up like the flu or seasonal colds.

We look forward to the day when the virus becomes more benign — or, at least, manageable — or something that has a less disastrous effect on our society.

In the meantime, experts have noted that while nobody should panic about this latest — and likely not final — variant of COVID-19, everyone should remain vigilant.

We’re in the midst of the holiday season. More time is likely to be spent indoors with other people, whether it’s shopping at a crowded store or having a meal with extended family. The increasingly colder weather will also likely lead to less time spent outside, where it’s easier to avoid catching the virus.

So, what can you do to continue to keep your family and community safe? Answer: The same thing you’ve (hopefully) been doing all along.

Mandates for masks and social distancing have been relaxed, but if you’re in a crowd in which you can’t maintain a safe distance, consider masking up. If you’re in a business that asks you to put one on, comply with their request.

Regional vaccination rates continue to climb, according to the Department of Health, and this surely helps. If you feel compelled to get a booster — especially with the emergence of omicron — most people are able to do so now.

Also, many people have suffered financially during the pandemic, and continue to do so. In recent weeks, the Eagle has published numerous stories about organizations collecting food, clothing, toys and other items for the less fortunate. If you’re able to do so, get involved in those efforts.

We’re still hoping for an end in sight for this pandemic. Until then, keep taking precautions to protect your family, friends and neighbors.

— NCD