US hospitals struggle as Omicron Covid surge delays other treatments

CDC director stresses need for full vaccination as data shows vulnerabilty of those without and ER backlogs stretch for hours

The surge in cases of the Omicron variant has not only swamped US hospitals with record numbers of patients with Covid-19, it has also caused frightening moments and major challenges for people seeking treatment for other problems.

Less-urgent procedures have been put on hold. Emergency room waits are stretching hours longer than usual.