California coronavirus variant is more contagious, new research shows
![](https://calscientists.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/jc-gellidon-xX0NVbJy8a8-unsplash.jpg)
The Hill –
A potentially homegrown mutation of the COVID-19 spike protein could be the reason behind high case numbers in California. The strain, known as CAL.20C, contains changes in the spike protein’s binding receptors, making it potentially more transmissible.