Experts are also calling BA.2 a "stealth omicron," as there's a key difference in its genetic sequence that makes it harder to track.
A leading infectious disease expert explains how the omicron variant could impact the course of the pandemic.
The highly transmissible Delta variant continues to account for 100% of COVID strains seen among samples sequenced in the area, according to health officials.
The R1 variant is the new strain of COVID-19 researchers are keeping a close eye on. The CDC identified "multiple spike protein mutations" in this variant with its capability to evade antibodies produced by the vaccine.
The number of coronavirus patients in Los Angeles County hospitals fell again Sunday, dropping from 1,070 Saturday to 1,053.
"We are drowning in people who are dying with this illness, and I have yet to admit a single person because of a vaccine-related incident."