Whoopi Goldberg tests positive for COVID, misses The View episode

Whoopi Goldberg, the moderator of The View, was notably absent from today's episode of the ABC daytime talk show after testing positive for COVID-19. Co-host Joy Behar made the announcement at the beginning of the live broadcast, reminding viewers that the virus is still circulating and precautions are necessary.

This marks Goldberg's fourth encounter with COVID. In September 2023, she addressed her third diagnosis through a video message, humorously dismissing rumors of her whereabouts and emphasizing the importance of vaccination.

Co-host Joy Behar also addressed vaccine skeptics, highlighting the potential severity of COVID-19 for unvaccinated individuals and urging caution. This news comes amid a recent surge in COVID cases in New York, attributed to summer gatherings and high temperatures driving people indoors.

Despite Goldberg's absence, she appeared in a pre-taped interview with Antony Starr from The Boys. State health officials are closely monitoring the situation and encouraging New Yorkers to follow safety guidelines while enjoying their summer. New vaccines from Moderna, Novavax, and Pfizer are expected to become available soon.