The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is sounding the alarm as COVID-19 continues to circulate at heightened levels throughout the region. While there has been a slight downturn in key metrics—cases, hospitalizations, and deaths—the situation remains serious. Wastewater analysis suggests that the prevalence of the virus stands at a precarious 67 percent of last winter's peak according to the data collected up to January 13, indicating that the threat of COVID-19 is far from over.
An average of 422 COVID-19 cases per day has been reported this week, down from the 462 cases reported the week prior. It's important to note that this count doesn't reflect home test results, so the real infection numbers could be significantly higher. Public Health notes a decrease in COVID-positive hospitalizations as well, with an average down to 727 per day for the week ending January 20, compared to 776 the week before. On a somber note, the average of daily deaths due to COVID-19 hovers at 4.9 for this week, per data up to January 1, slightly less than the 5.6 reported in the preceding week.
Flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are also continuing to impact citizens, albeit at lower intensity levels. The weekly average for flu-related hospitalizations dipped to 263 patients, a drop from the prior average of 384. Results from sentinel surveillance laboratories show a positive test rate of 12.4 percent for influenza and 7.8 percent for RSV for the week ending January 13, which, while declining, still underscores the present risk of respiratory illnesses.
With the danger of infection not yet in the clear, Public Health is urging residents to take sensible precautions. They strongly recommend vaccination and advise that people who feel sick should stay home, get tested, and seek treatment, especially the elderly and those at a higher risk of severe illness. The importance of getting the updated COVID-19 vaccine is reiterated—it's seen as one of the most effective measures against severe cases, hospitalization, and mortality.
Aside from vaccinations, authorities advise wearing high-quality masks in crowded indoor places and regularly washing hands to mitigate the spread of respiratory viruses. Such preventive measures are particularly crucial for residents at elevated risk for severe illness or for those who regularly interact with vulnerable populations. Further information on precautions can be found on the Public Health website.
For those in need of assistance, the Public Health InfoLine at 1-833-540-0473 offers free support, including vaccines, at-home test kits, telehealth appointments for COVID-19 treatment, and vaccination services for the homebound. The helpline is accessible every day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and serves all Los Angeles County residents, irrespective of insurance or immigration status.
The Public Health Department commits to weekly reporting on COVID-19 data, providing transparency and ongoing monitoring of the situation as Los Angeles County continues to battle the pandemic's persistent presence.
