Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
Available On Air Stations
Watch Live

KPBS Midday Edition

Expert: BA.5 is 'worst' version of virus since start of pandemic

A COVID-19 testing site at San Diego State University. Jan. 15, 2021.

Case numbers and hospitalizations are on the rise in San Diego as the United States makes its way through yet another summer surge of the virus.

The rise in cases, fueled by the now-dominant BA.5, continues to prompt concerns over the subvariant's rapid transmissibility and high potential to cause reinfection.

BA.5 is also raising questions about the general effectiveness of available vaccines as the virus continues to mutate further.

Advertisement

Dr. Eric Topol, director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute in La Jolla, joined KPBS Midday Edition to talk about how the BA.5 subvariant is complicating efforts to keep the virus under control.

Fact-based local news is essential

KPBS keeps you informed with local stories you need to know about — with no paywall. Our news is free for everyone because people like you help fund it.

Support local independent journalism now.