AceShowbiz - Once again, Whoopi Goldberg has tested positive for COVID-19, causing her to be absent from her role as a co-host on "The View". Joy Behar, who covers for Goldberg every Friday, informed viewers of the news at the beginning of Thursday's live show.

"You might have noticed Whoopi is not here, because Whoopi has tested positive for COVID," Behar, 81, mentioned, emphasizing that the virus is still making rounds and reminding everyone to stay careful.

Sunny Hostin, a legal expert and fellow co-host on "The View", added that Goldberg's diagnosis is part of a "summer surge" of COVID cases. Hostin speculated that a new booster shot for the coronavirus vaccine might be available later this year, giving hope to those concerned about the continued spread of the virus.

This isn't the first time she's had to step back for health reasons. In September 2023, she was absent from the season 27 premiere of "The View" due to a prior COVID infection. During that episode, she humorously addressed her virtual audience to confirm it was indeed her behind the mask.

"Hey, in spite of everything you've heard, and let me just make sure that you know it's actually me," she said, lowering her face mask. "See, it's me. I am not at Burning Man. I'm not still in Italy, I'm not doing stuff, I'm not trying to change the outcome of the election - I just, I have COVID. I just have COVID."

Goldberg's bout with COVID serves as a stark reminder that the pandemic persists, contrasting the common narrative that the worst has passed. With various mentions of an upcoming booster shot, it is clear that medical experts and authorities are continuing to monitor the situation and provide new solutions to keep the public protected.

"The View" airs weekdays at 11 a.m. ET/PT on ABC, and fans will have to wait until Goldberg is clear of the virus to see her back on screen. Until then, the show must go on with her co-hosts holding down the fort.