News 12's Rich Barrabi was joined by Dr. Deena Adimoolam, a specialist in internal medicine and endocrinology, to discuss the new COVID-19 variant and the need for booster shots.

There is a new variant of Omicron called BA.2 that scientists and doctors are still studying. Adimoolam says some studies from other countries have shown BA.2 to be a less severe form of COVID-19, but more information is still needed. She says studies from the U.S. are still underway.

Adimoolam says while COVID-19 may have minor, cold-like symptoms for some people, it is different than the common cold because it is unpredictable who may feel severe symptoms and who may even need hospitalization.

Adimoolam says it's likely that COVID-19 will continue to mutate, which is why booster shots are important.

Adimoolam says while COVID-19 cases may be on the decline, the number of infections that are being recorded are likely lower than what they actually are due to at-home tests not being reported.

Is natural immunity stronger than immunity gained by vaccination? Adimoolam says this varies by patient.