Amid Rising COVID-19 Transmissions,
Common-Sense Safety Precautions Urged
We have been seeing a gradual and consistent rise in COVID-19 transmission over the past few weeks.?Despite the increase, hospitalizations remain at near historic lows, and deaths are at their lowest point since the beginning of the pandemic.
To reduce the spread of infection, Public Health wants to make sure residents are aware of the risks so they can take sensible precautions to keep themselves and their loved ones healthy.?This is especially important for people who are more vulnerable to severe illness and death from COVID-19. That includes older adults and people with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions, or who have never been vaccinated.
Protect Yourself & Your Loved Ones
COVID-19 is still changing, and we cannot predict what will happen this fall. However, what we do know is how to be prepared to take appropriate safety precautions as needed to protect ourselves and our community. This will help minimize disruptions to school, work and everyday life associated with the virus.
Masking
Masking is currently based on individual preference, except in locations where it?s required during an outbreak or by the site. Businesses, schools, health care facilities, event and other venues may require employees and/or visitors to wear masks. No one can stop you from wearing a mask in any setting.
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Wearing a well-fitting, high-filtration mask is strongly recommended for everyone while on public transit and visiting health care and skilled nursing facilities. If you are at higher risk for COVID-19, you may want to wear a mask in crowded and/or poorly ventilated indoor public places.??
You also should mask around others for:
- 10 days if you are exposed to COVID-19
- Days 6-10 after a COVID-19 infection, if leaving isolation
COVID-19 testing remains a valuable tool. You should test:
- After you have been exposed to COVID-19
- If you have symptoms, such as a fever, cough, sore throat or fatigue
- Before visiting someone at high risk for severe illness if infected
- Tests are free and widely available at many locations throughout Los Angeles County, including all libraries within the city of Los and at designed libraries in Los Angeles County. For more information on how to access free tests, visit http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/covidtests
If Sick, Isolate & Get Treatment
If you test positive or have symptoms:
- Stay home and away from other people for at least five full days. You may leave isolation on day 6, if you have been fever-free for 24 hours without using fever reduction medications and your symptoms are mild and improving. You should wear a mask around others through day 10.
- Consult a health care provider to access treatment. Oral medications should be started within five days of experiencing symptoms.
- If you don?t have a provider, call the Public Health Call Center at 1-833-540-0473, seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., for more information about COVID-19 and access to free testing and treatment.
Plan and Prepare for the Fall Vaccine
As fall approaches, it?s time to think about the well-being of your family and community. The best way to ensure a safe and healthy winder is by getting vaccinations for both you and your loved ones.
Why Vaccinate?
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Stay Healthy: Vaccines protect us from getting serious illnesses and feeling really sick.
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Protect Your Loved Ones: By getting vaccinated, we also protect those who can?t get vaccinated, like infants and people with weakened immune systems.
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Avoid Disruptions: Vaccinations mean less chance of changing our plans or missing important activities because of illness.
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Safe Schools and Activities: Vaccinations are a vital part of keeping schools and activities safe for everyone involved.
Later this month, there will be a new COVID-19 vaccine which will provide increased protection against the newer COVID strains. Most everyone will benefit from the added protection.??
If you have questions or concerns about getting the latest COVID vaccine, please talk with your health care provider or call the Public Health Call Center at 1-833-540-0473, seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.?
We encourage people to make a plan now with their family for getting vaccinated this fall. You can safely receive the COVID-19 vaccine and the flu vaccine at the same time. Everyone should stay up to date on recommended vaccines, especially older adults, people who have underlying health conditions and people who may have increased exposure because of their work or because their child is in school.
It is recommended you follow @lapublichealth on?Facebook,?Twitter?or?Instagram?the latest updates about Los Angeles County.
Always check with trusted sources for the latest accurate information about novel coronavirus:
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