I know we all really want COVID-19 to be over. It’s not, so brace yourself and your business for the pandemic-related swings we’re likely to see over the next few weeks and months.

Though it’s not a surprise in some ways—scientists have long warned of variants—the latest coronavirus variation, Omicron, looks like it might pose real trouble.

What kind of trouble? For now, the biggest issue is uncertainty. After all, as I write this in early December, we’ve only known about this variant for a couple of weeks. We do know that it appears to be more contagious than Delta. How much more? We’ll find out soon—but it’s already showing up in numerous countries, including in the U.S.

I’m not optimistic. Many people worldwide remain unvaccinated. Mix that up with a more infectious variation, and I foresee any return to the office being pushed back even further into 2022.

True, as U.S. President Joe Biden said last week, “This variant is a cause for concern—not a cause for panic.” He also doesn’t think we’ll need to lock down the country, as long as people get vaccinated, get a third booster shot, wear masks indoors, and generally treat Omicron seriously.

I think New York City has the right approach. There, the government is “strongly recommending residents wear masks in all indoor locations regardless of vaccination.” It’s a common sense move when it comes to Covid, and it’s among the least disruptive to business—especially as we get into the heart of the holiday season.

And it could be what gets us through this particular wave. Even in a worst-case scenario, where Omicron can break through the current vaccines, Pfizer scientists estimate they can adapt the current vaccine to successfully fight Omicron within six weeks. 

In the meantime, what does that mean for business?

The SBA has also worked to streamline the application process. Perhaps because the program will expire on Dec. 31, the SBA is encouraging businesses in low-income areas to apply for the Targeted Advance grant of $10,000 through the end of the year, and then a final Supplemental Targeted Advance grant for $5,000.

Guzman continued, “Those grants, unfortunately, need to be processed by the end of the year, so if you think you might be eligible for that, you need to apply by December 10th.” The EIDL and Targeted Advance applications received by year’s end will continue to be processed after that date until all funds have been exhausted.

Either way, Guzman said, “If your business needs that type of financing to carry through, make sure that you apply as soon as possible for those funds.

She’s right. And, with Omicron potentially bringing more trouble our way, if you think you may need the money, now is the time to try to get all the cash you can get to survive this coming winter of coronavirus discontent.

Hang on folks. Eventually, the light in the tunnel will be a new, better day and not another variant train coming down the tracks.

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