CDC official says COVID-19 remains a threat, urges people to get vaccinated

Dr. Nirav Shah, the principal deputy director for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, joins "Closer Look" to discuss the recent uptick in COVID cases as EG.5, a new strain of the virus spreads. (LaShawn Hudson/WABE)

Doctors are seeing an uptick in COVID-19 cases as a new strain of the coronavirus spreads.

The EG.5, also known as “Eris,” is a subvariant of the Omicron variant.

Recently on “Closer Look,” Dr. Nirav Shah, the principal deputy director for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, stressed that COVID is still a threat and that everyone should take precautions to protect themselves and their families.



During the conversation, Dr. Shah also stressed the importance of stocking up on COVID rapid tests and getting vaccinated and boosted.

An updated booster shot is expected in mid-September from Moderna and Pfizer. A new RVS vaccine for older adults is also being manufactured.