Nikhi Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team May 26, 2024 2 months, 14 hours, 45 minutes ago
COVID-19 News: Los Angeles County is experiencing a concerning rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations, with an average of 113 new admissions per day. This equates to approximately 800 individuals being hospitalized weekly due to the virus. The data, released by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, underscores a significant increase in the burden on healthcare facilities as the region grapples with the ongoing pandemic.
COVID-19 Hospitalizations Rise to an Average of 113 Per Day in Los Angeles
Current COVID-19 Statistics in LA
The latest update from the LA Public Health Department, reported on May 23, 2024, provides a snapshot of the current situation. The daily average number of COVID-19 cases stands at 73, with a notably low average of 0.3 deaths per day. However, the rising number of hospitalizations is a cause for concern, indicating that while the number of infections may not be extraordinarily high, the severity of the cases is significant enough to require hospital care.
https://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/coronavirus/data/
Statewide Trends and Variants
The increase in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations is not confined to Los Angeles. Statewide data reveals a similar trend, with coronavirus concentrations in sewage samples showing a rise across various regions of California. The state Department of Public Health has noted an uptick in test positivity rates for COVID-19 since early May, further corroborating the evidence of a resurgence.
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Respiratory-Viruses/RespiratoryDashboard.aspx
A major factor contributing to the rise in cases is the emergence of new coronavirus subvariants, collectively nicknamed FLiRT. These subvariants, officially designated as KP.2 and KP.1.1, have rapidly gained prominence, overtaking the previous dominant strain, JN.1. For the two-week period ending last Saturday, FLiRT subvariants accounted for an estimated 50.4% of COVID-19 infections nationwide, up significantly from 20% just a month earlier.
https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#variant-proportions
Wastewater Analysis as an Early Indicator
Public health officials are closely monitoring coronavirus levels in wastewater, a method that has proven to be a valuable early indicator of infection trends. Recent analyses have shown an increase in coronavirus concentrations in Los Angeles County's sewage, mirroring the statewide trend. This method of surveillance helps in identifying potential surges in cases before they are fully reflected in reported case numbers.
https://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/coronavirus/data/#waterwater
Official Statements and Public Health Response
The Los Angeles County D
epartment of Public Health has been cautious in its interpretation of the recent data, noting that it is still too early to determine if the current increase will develop into a sustained trend. The department highlighted that while the case counts remain relatively low, the potential for a more significant uptick cannot be ruled out.
Similarly, the state Department of Public Health has acknowledged the slow but steady rise in test positivity rates and emphasized the importance of continued vigilance. "COVID-19 concentrations in wastewater have suggested increases in several regions across California since early May," the department told various
COVID-19 News outlets. This ongoing surveillance is crucial for timely interventions and public health planning.
Community Impact and Precautions
The rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations and the emergence of new subvariants have prompted health officials to remind the public of the importance of preventive measures. While vaccination rates are high, ensuring that individuals remain up-to-date with their boosters is essential in mitigating severe outcomes. Public health campaigns continue to stress the importance of wearing masks in crowded and indoor settings, practicing good hygiene, and seeking testing and treatment promptly if symptoms arise.
Looking Ahead
As Los Angeles and the broader state of California navigate this latest phase of the pandemic, public health authorities remain committed to monitoring trends and adapting strategies to protect the community. The rise in hospitalizations serves as a stark reminder that COVID-19 remains a significant public health challenge. By staying informed and adhering to recommended guidelines, residents can help curb the spread of the virus and safeguard the well-being of their communities.
For the most current updates and recommendations, individuals are encouraged to visit the official Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and California Department of Public Health websites.
For the latest
COVID-19 News, keep on logging to Thailand Medical News.
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https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/covid-19-rising-again-in-washington-d-c-and-12-other-states-in-america
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