Los Angeles County is grappling with a notable uptick in COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths, spurring calls for a return to common-sense preventative measures. According to a report from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, the daily average of reported COVID-19 cases has risen over 25 percent from 495 to 621 in the last week. However, experts suggest this figure doesn't capture the full scope of transmission given the underreporting of at-home test results.
Moreover, hospitalizations are also on an upward swing. Nearly increasing from 604 to 686, hospitalizations have jumped by about 15 percent. The CDC's reported Hospital Admission Level for the county shot up as well, from 6.5 to 8.3 new admissions per 100,000 people. Tragically, this trend includes a surge in daily average deaths, moving from an average of 2 deaths earlier in the month to currently 5.
In the face of these concerning statistics, public health officials have doubled down on the advice that seems like a broken record but might be the tune we all need to listen to: exercise common-sense virus etiquette. They suggest wearing masks in crowded places, washing hands frequently, and staying home when sick. Testing is also recommended for those showing symptoms or having been exposed, particularly when in contact with older individuals or those with pre-existing health conditions.
To aid the public in navigating the treacherous waters of the current health crisis, the Public Health InfoLine remains accessible, except for a brief hiatus on New Year's Day. The InfoLine provides, reported from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., critical answers to queries about diseases like COVID-19, flu, or RSV, vaccination sites, and testing protocols.
Comprehensive COVID-19 data is disseminated every week by the county, and an array of information including demographics, outbreak locations, and vaccination stats are readily available on the Department of Public Health's website. For the latest and most accurate updates on COVID-19, residents are also encouraged to consult a roster of trusted sources such as the California Department of Public Health, the CDC, and the World Health Organization. Assistance is a mere phone call away for LA County residents, who can dial 2-1-1 for additional support.
