On Monday Public Health confirmed 16 new deaths and 1,022 new cases of COVID-19.

There are 241,768 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of L.A. County, and a total of 5,784 deaths.

"L.A. County has made encouraging progress in all the key indicators the past month. The percent of positive tests is a good indicator of how we are doing at slowing the spread of the virus," Public Health said in a press release.

“As we approach the Labor Day weekend and as we plan for how our county will reopen schools and more businesses, we must learn from our past. Gatherings – parties, cook-outs and the other activities we usually do with non-household members on holidays can easily lead to increases in transmission, hospitalizations and deaths," Dr. Barbara Ferrer said Monday.

California Gov. Newsom announced reopening guidelines - again - last week for the counties in the state and this time it's color-coded and in tiers. Newsom said there will be a uniform framework that provides four tiers, not 58 variations. Newsom said the tiers are color-coded county guidelines to get through the flu season and with COVID-19. The metrics to move through the tiers will be case rate and test positivity for county movement - "the new simple metrics that will determine movement within these tiers," Newsom said.

There was also an announcement that barbershops and hair salons can reopen across the state on Monday, Aug. 31 but that can be overridden by individual counties.

For example, LA County is in the purple tier which means "As of August 31, 2020, counties in the Widespread (purple) tier may open some businesses and activities with modifications, including all retail, shopping centers at maximum 25% capacity, and hair salons and barbershops indoors."

However, LA County Public Health said on Friday that the health officer order has NOT been changed to allow that.

"While LA County can, under CA’s new #COVID19 reopening rules, allow barbershops and hair salons to resume indoor operations and malls to reopen (at 25% capacity) on Monday, @lapublichealth says the health officer order has NOT been changed to allow that to happen," KNX reporter Claudia Peschiutta reported last week.

On Monday LA County Public Health said "LA County is currently in Tier 1, meaning that there continues to be widespread transmission of the virus in the county."

Public Health said "The current number of new cases per day per 100,000 people is 13.1, nearly double the threshold for this tier which is less than 7 new cases per day per 100,000 population. And even though L.A. County’s current test positivity rate of 5% puts us in Tier 2 (Red) for this metric, when the two metrics fall in different tiers the state places counties in the most restrictive tier; hence, L.A. County, like most counties in California, has been placed in Tier 1. Our path forward for recovery depends on us being able to reduce community transmission significantly so children and teachers can get back to their classrooms and more people can get back to their jobs with as much safety as possible. "

AUGUST

On Wednesday in LA County, among the 193 infants that were tested for COVID-19 at birth, eight tested positive for the virus and 185 tested negative, the LA County Department of Public Health announced.

LA County Department of Public Health confirmed 58 new deaths and 1,642 new cases of confirmed COVID-19. There are now 235,386 positive cases and a total of 5,663 deaths.

"To date, 1,200 pregnant women have tested positive for the virus and 79% of these women were symptomatic. Tragically, two women who were pregnant passed away from COVID-19. "

The state is monitoring all counties to determine their progress in slowing the spread of COVID-19. L.A. County must stay below 100 cases per 100,000 people 14-day case rate thresholds for three consecutive days to be removed from the state’s COVID-19 county monitoring list.

On Wednesday, the 14-day case rate per 100,000 people for L.A. County is 198 cases per 100,000 residents, and we are grateful to see this number come down. We need to continuing taking all the steps we have these past weeks so that community transmission rates are low enough for us to continue our recovery journey.

Earlier, this week it was reported that LA County elementary schools may soon be able to start applying for waivers to allow kids in transitional kindergarten through sixth grade to return to campus.

LA County Public Health said "At this point, the school waiver process will not be reopening for applications."

"Given the need to review the implications of the new state guidance on school re-opening plans, at this point, we are not ready to open up our waiver process for schools," Barbara Ferrer said Wednesday.

If you're wondering which health conditions might raise your risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19 LA County public health officials have just released some data on that.

Earlier this month, California Gov. Newsom also addressed the state tech glitch over COVID-19 cases.

The LA County Department of Public Health reports more than 5,000 confirmed COVID-19 deaths in LA County.

On Tuesday, Public Health has confirmed 63 new deaths and 1,440 new cases of COVID-19. The number of new cases reported today is missing lab reports from one of the larger labs which is contributing to the lower number of new cases.

“Today’s numbers do not include backlog numbers. The State indicated that a backlog of lab reports for L.A County from the State electronic laboratory system (ELR) should be reconciled this week,” a press release said.

There are 1,524 confirmed cases currently hospitalized and 32% of these people are confirmed cases in the ICU.

Daily hospitalizations were over 2,000 patients a month ago.

"L.A. County has hit a tragic milestone today — more than 5,000 of our friends, family, neighbors and co-workers have died because of COVID-19. This is heartbreaking and reminds us of the human toll of this pandemic. Our hearts go out to the many families that have lost a love one to this pandemic," said Barbara Ferrer, PhD, MPH, MEd, Director of Public Health. “One of the deaths we are reporting today is of a young adult under the age of 29. This is a reminder that the risk for all of us is real and that no matter how young you are, this virus can be deadly. We must continue to adopt practices that slow the spread of this virus; this allows us to prevent these untimely deaths. Please practice physical distancing, wear a face covering, wash your hands and avoid gathering with people you don’t live with."

LA County Public Health has confirmed 17 new deaths and 2,039 new cases of COVID-19 in late July.

Public Health anticipates receiving a backlog of cases in the coming days.

Since May, the majority of cases have occurred among people between the ages of 18 and 49 years old. People between the ages of 30 and 49 year old account for the largest proportion of cases and roughly the same proportion of cases as seen since May. Other age groups are flat or decreasing slightly.

Public Health is reporting 2,017 confirmed cases currently hospitalized and 29% of these people are confirmed cases in the ICU. There are a total of 2,552 confirmed and suspect cases that are currently hospitalized and 18% of these people are on ventilators.

The hospitalization data is incomplete due to data from five non-reporting hospitals not being part of today's update.

Last week, LA County Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer said Wednesday July 22 "COVID-19 appears to be on track to becoming one of the leading causes of death in LA County."

She says it's far deadlier than the flu.

Between March and June, COVID-19 killed twice as many people as the flu. Hospitalizations remain the highest they've been since the pandemic began.

According to the LA County Public Health Department "From January to June of last year, coronary heart disease was the top cause of death, with nearly 6,000 deaths attributed to it. It appears that COVID-19, with over 3,400 deaths during the same time period, is on track to claim more lives in Los Angeles County than any disease except coronary heart disease —killing more people than Alzheimer’s Disease, other kinds of heart disease, stroke and COPD. For additional comparison, influenza killed 1,521 people during the 2019 flu season from October to May. "

There were 64 new deaths and 3,266 new cases of COVID-19. To date, Public Health has identified more than 164,00 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of L.A. County, and more than 4,200 deaths.

On Tuesday July 21, the LA County Department of Public Health confirmed 50 new deaths and 2,741 new cases of COVID-19.

Of the new cases reported by Public Health today (excluding Long Beach and Pasadena), 57% occurred in people under the age of 41 years old. This continues to confirm younger people are driving new infections and spread of COVID-19.

There are 2,218 confirmed cases currently hospitalized, 26% of these people are confirmed cases in the ICU and 18% are confirmed cases on ventilators.

This is the third consecutive day of over 2,200 hospitalizations. To date, Public Health has identified 161,673 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of LA County, and a total of 4,154 deaths.

This comes as California now has the most COVID-19 cases in the nation and Gov. Newsom addressed that Wednesday.

On Monday July 20, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has confirmed 9 new deaths and 3,160 new cases of COVID-19. The decrease in deaths may reflect a reporting lag from over the weekend.

For the second straight day, Public Health confirms the highest number of new hospitalizations reported in a day with 2,232 people currently hospitalized, surpassing yesterday's count of 2,216 hospitalizations, according to an LA County Public Health press release. Of the 2,232 confirmed COVID-19 cases currently hospitalized, 26% of these people are confirmed cases in the ICU and 19% are confirmed cases on ventilators.

Meanwhile, when it comes to contact tracing, Public Health is providing $10 million to community-based organizations, particularly in the hardest hit communities, to encourage participation with case investigation and contact tracing efforts to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Public Health is also piloting a $20 gift card incentive program to thank individuals for participating in the hour-long contact tracing interview.

Recently, Gov. Newsom revamped guidelines for hair salons and barbershops to be able to operate outside safely. Newsom previously ordered the closure of fitness centers, houses of worship, hair and nail salons, barbershops in LA County, which is one of the counties on the state monitoring list.

LA County Public Health officials also announced the closure of those sectors to mimic Newsom's order: Gyms and Fitness Centers, Places of Worship, Indoor Protests, Offices for Non-Critical Infrastructure Sectors, nail salons, massage parlors, and tattoo parlors, hair salons and barbershops indoors and malls. The city of LA also ordered the closures of their gyms, hair and nail salons indoor, barbershops indoors and houses of worship.

Last week, Newsom ordered the closure of indoor operations at restaurants, wineries, zoos, movie theaters for at least three weeks for certain counties, including LA County, amid rising cases of COVID-19 in the state. Newsom ordered the closure of bars in LA County and other counties. Meanwhile, LA County, Orange County and Riverside counties decided to close their bars.

Cases are surging, the rate of infection is increasing and the hospitalizations are increasing and it is a reflection of a lot more community spread.

That's what LA County Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer has continued to say when it comes to COVID-19 in LA County.

“This week we’ve hit concerning milestones. We have reported the most cases in a single day, the most hospitalizations and tragically high death numbers," she said Thursday July 16.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (Public Health) confirmed 59 new deaths and 4,592 new cases of COVID-19. This is the largest increase in new cases, surpassing the count from July 14. Over the last 48 hours there have been 7,350 new cases.

A day after record hospitalizations and new cases reported, LA County Public Health reported the highest number of new hospitalizations reported in a day with 2,193 people currently hospitalized, surpassing yesterday's number.

Out of the 2,193 confirmed COVID-19 cases currently hospitalized, 26% of these people are confirmed cases in the ICU and 17% are confirmed cases on ventilators.

The 3-day average for people hospitalized is 2,084. This is more people hospitalized each day for COVID-19 than at any point during the pandemic.

Data shows younger people between the ages of 18 and 40 years old are being hospitalized at a higher rate than seen before.

On Tuesday July 14, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed the highest number of new COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations reported in a day with 4,244 new cases and 2,103 people currently hospitalized.

"Public Health has confirmed 73 new deaths of Covid-19. This is one of the highest number of new deaths reported in a day and may reflect a lag in the reporting of deaths over the weekend," Public Health reported in a press release.

Public Health confirmed 13 new deaths and 2,593 new cases of COVID-19 Monday July 13. Los Angeles County continues to see evidence of increased community spread of COVID-19. There are 2,056 people hospitalized, 28% of these people are confirmed cases in the ICU and 20% are confirmed cases on ventilators. This remains substantially higher than the 1,350 to 1,450 daily hospitalizations seen four weeks ago.

On Friday the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health reported it continues to ramping up contact tracing efforts as cases of COVID-19 increase. Public Health has confirmed 51 new deaths and 2,667 new cases of COVID-19. To date, Public Health has identified 127,358 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of LA County, and a total of 3,738 deaths.

Currently, there are more than 1,500 contact tracers at Public Health who interview people who have tested positive for COVID-19 and are residents of Los Angeles County.

The daily positivity rate (a composite of a 7-day rolling average) is higher at 10%. There are 1,995 people currently hospitalized, 26% of these people are confirmed cases in the ICU and 17% are confirmed cases on ventilators. This remains substantially higher than the 1,350 to 1,450 daily hospitalizations seen four weeks ago.

Earlier this week, Ferrer reported 65 new deaths for a total of more than 3,600 deaths in LA County from COVID-19, and 2,496 new cases today bringing the total to 123,004 total positive cases.

She said the county is at a "critical juncture" on Wednesday.

With a backlog of people trying to get tested, health officials are urging only people who may have potential symptoms, or known exposure to COVID-19, or those who work and live in a high-risk facility to sign up for a test.

The daily positivity rate (a composite of a 7-day rolling average) is 10.4%, a rate that Los Angeles County hasn’t seen since late-April. There are more than 2,000 people currently hospitalized, 26% of these people are confirmed cases in the ICU and 17% are confirmed cases on ventilators. This remains substantially higher than the 1,350 to 1,450 daily hospitalizations seen four weeks ago.

On Tuesday LA County Public Health confirms the highest number of new cases of COVID-19 reported in a day with 4,015 new cases. There were 46 new deaths pushing the total past 120,000 positive cases and a total of 3,579 deaths.

"The high number of cases are, in part, due to a backlog of about 2,000 test results received from one lab who just submitted lab results from July 2 through July 5 today," LA County Public Health said in an email Tuesday.

There are 1,969 people currently hospitalized, 27% of these people are confirmed cases in the ICU and 18% are confirmed cases on ventilators. This remains substantially higher than the 1,350 to 1,450 daily hospitalizations seen three weeks ago.

LA County Public Health said in its press release that testing results are available for over 1,213,000 individuals with 9 percent of all people testing positive."

"The daily positivity rate (a composite of a 7-day rolling average) has risen to 11.6%," according to LA County Public Health.

Ferrer had stern warnings when it came to staying home as much as possible, limiting contact with others and wearing a face covering. Ferrer said the positivity rate has started to increase in the last month adding there is a significant increase in the 18 to 41-year-old age range. She said almost 50 percent of the new cases occur in younger people and those younger people are spreading the virus to others.

She said when looking at hospitalizations over time by age group, "there has been quite a shift over the last few weeks as hospitalizations for 18 to 40-year-olds and 41 to 64-year-olds have increased and the percent of hospitalizations for the 65 and older group have now gone down."

Rate of people testing positive for #COVID19 in LA County went up to 10% over past week, says Supervisor @kathrynbarger. — Claudia Peschiutta (@ReporterClaudia) July 6, 2020

LA County Public Health Director Ferrer has also issued a warning about the coronavirus outbreak.

Last week after three consecutive days of more than 2,100 daily COVID-19 cases for LA County, LA County Public Health reported there were more than 2,000 new COVID-19 cases, pushing the total past 105,500. Deaths have topped 3,400.

There were 35 new deaths reported Wednesday.

Hospitalizations up to nearly 1,900 (not including Pasadena and Long Beach - the highest number in weeks.

There are 1,889 people currently hospitalized, 27% of these people are confirmed cases in the ICU and 18% are confirmed cases on ventilators. This is the largest number of people hospitalized since early May.

Last week LA County announced the closure of:

Indoor, in-person dining at restaurants

Indoor museums, indoor children’s museums, and indoor operations at zoos and aquariums

Cardrooms and satellite wagering facilities

LA County and 18 other counties are on Newsom's state watch list. All 19 counties have to close down their bars too, according to Newsom's orders Wednesday.

It was the third consecutive day of more than 2,100 daily COVID-19 cases for LA County on Tuesday.

On Tuesday LA County saw 2,779 new COVID-19 cases. There were 45 new deaths. There are 1,783 people currently hospitalized, 26% of these people are confirmed cases in the ICU and 18% are confirmed cases on ventilators. This is significantly higher than the 1,350 to 1,450 daily hospitalizations seen in recent weeks.

LA County Public Health said in a press release that "everyone should always wear a face covering securely over your nose and mouth and keep six feet apart from others not in your household when out in public. Businesses must continue to follow Public Health directives. Public Health reminds everyone that you remain safer at home."

On Monday, LA County saw a record number of new daily COVID-19 cases and the number of hospitalizations.

There are 22 new deaths on Monday from COVID-19 and 2,903 new cases - the largest number of cases ever reported, according to Barbara Ferrer.

She also reported 1,710 people who have confirmed cases of COVID-19 and are hospitalized - also the highest number of people hospitalized in many, many weeks.

Public Health announced more than 100,000 positive cases of COVID-19 in LA County, and a total of 3,326 deaths.

Last week, Barbara Ferrer said "We are safer at home. Period."

That's what Ferrer has said to KNX reporter Claudia Peschiutta when talking about "concerning" COVID-19 trends, as COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations climb up in LA County.

There are 1,717 people currently hospitalized, higher than the 1,350 to 1,450 daily hospitalizations seen in recent weeks, according to LA County Public Health on Sunday.

On Sunday, Public Health has confirmed 20 new deaths and 2,542 new cases of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). Fifteen people who died were over the age of 65 years old, four people who died were between the ages of 41 and 65 years old, and one person who died was between the ages of 18 and 40 years old. Thirteen people had underlying health conditions including 10 people over the age of 65 years old and three people between the ages of 41 to 65 years old.

"We need to continue to take a very hard look at how the reopening is going," Ferrer says to Peschiutta.

Earlier this month, Ferrer says the average daily rate of people testing positive for COVID-19 has been climbing in the past two weeks and is now back up to where it was two months ago.

Recent inspections indicate efforts to get reopened businesses to comply with new rules to prevent the spread of the virus got off to a rocky start. She notes inspectors visited 3,751 restaurants over three weekends, starting May 30, and found 83 percent were out of compliance.

Update: Confirmed #COVID19 cases in LA County topped 91,000 today. Deaths went up to nearly 3,250. @KNX1070 https://t.co/j3CdfS3Nof — Claudia Peschiutta (@ReporterClaudia) June 26, 2020

"We need to continue to take a very hard look at how the reopening is going," Ferrer says. She notes inspectors visited 3,751 restaurants over three weekends, starting May 30, and found 83% were out of compliance. @KNX1070 https://t.co/jyF2XK8Yvd — Claudia Peschiutta (@ReporterClaudia) June 25, 2020

"We're safer at home. Period." - @lapublichealth's Barbara Ferrer on the "concerning" #COVID19 trends. She notes cases, hospitalizations and positivity rate in LA County are going up. @KNX1070 — Claudia Peschiutta (@ReporterClaudia) June 25, 2020

On Wednesday June 24, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed 34 new deaths and 1,260 new cases of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Twenty-eight people who died were over the age of 65 years old, four people who died were between the ages of 41 and 65 years old, and one person who died was between the ages of 18 and 40 years old. Ten people had underlying health conditions including nine people over the age of 65 years old and one person between the ages of 41 to 65 years old. One death was reported by the City of Long Beach.

There are now 89,490 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of LA County, and a total of 3,205 deaths.

With the latest #COVID19 stats announced, confirmed cases in LA County are on track to top 90k tomorrow and 100K next week. Deaths have jumped to more than 3,200. @KNX1070 — Claudia Peschiutta (@ReporterClaudia) June 25, 2020

LA County Public Health officials in recent weeks have advised those who took to the streets to protest the death of George Floyd and protest police brutality to self-quarantine for 14 days and get a COVID-19 test if symptoms occur.

As LA County reopens in the last few weeks, there has been constant vigilance on ensuring businesses and other sectors follow the reopening safety guidelines. Just recently, public health officials visited 2,000 restaurants that were reopened in LA County over the past weekend and half of them were not in compliance.

WHERE CAN YOU GET TESTED IN LA COUNTY AND CITY OF LA?

On Tuesday June 23, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed 34 new deaths and 2,364 new cases of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Twenty-seven people who died were over the age of 65 years old, six people who died were between the ages of 41 and 65 years old, and one person who died was between the ages of 18 and 40 years old. Twenty-seven people had underlying health conditions including 20 people over the age of 65 years old, six people between the ages of 41 to 65 years old and one person between the ages of 18 and 40 years old.

"It's the fourth day in a week that more than 2,000 new cases have been announced in a single day. Hospitalizations continue to climb, topping 1,500 today," according to KNX reporter Claudia Peschiutta on Twitter Tuesday.

More than 2,300 new #COVID19 cases announced today in LA County. It's the fourth day in a week that >2k new cases have been announced in a single day. Hospitalizations continue to climb, topping 1,500 today. @KNX1070 — Claudia Peschiutta (@ReporterClaudia) June 23, 2020

On June 22, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed 18 new deaths and 2,571 new cases of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).

It was the third day in the past week where they were reporting over 2,000 new cases during a single day, according to Dr. Barbara Ferrer adding there was an increase in community transmission.

13 people who died were over the age of 65 years old and 9 of the people had underlying health conditions. Four people who died were between the ages of 41 and 65 years old and all four had underlying health conditions. One death was reported by the city of Pasadena.

Over the weekend on June 21, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed 11 new deaths and 1784 new cases of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Four people who died were over the age of 65 years old and five people who died were between the ages of 41 and 65 years old. Eight people had underlying health conditions including four people over the age of 65 years old and four people between the ages of 41 to 65 years old. Two deaths were reported by the City of Long Beach.

On June 18, Thursday, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed 36 new deaths and 1,051 new cases of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Twenty-six people who died were over the age of 65 years old, seven people who died were between the ages of 41 and 65 years old, and one person who died was between the ages of 18 and 40 years old. Thirty-one people had underlying health conditions including 25 people over the age of 65 years old and six people between the ages of 41 to 65 years old. One death was reported by the City of Long Beach and one death was reported by the City of Pasadena.

On June 17, Wednesday, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed 34 new deaths and 2,129 new cases of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).

It was the highest daily total of new cases reported in LA County on Wednesday.

However, Public Health officials said about 600 cases are from a backlog of test results.

Twenty-three people who died were over the age of 65 years old, seven people who died were between the ages of 41 and 65 years old, and four people who died were between the ages of 18 and 40 years old. Twenty-three people had underlying health conditions including 17 people over the age of 65 years old, four people between the ages of 41 to 65 years old, and two people between the ages of 18 and 40 years old. One death was reported by the City of Long Beach and one death was reported by the City of Pasadena.

There are now 77,189 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of LA County, and a total of 2,991 deaths.

Confirmed, it's the highest daily total of new cases reported in LA County https://t.co/nSltoddwAk — Claudia Peschiutta (@ReporterClaudia) June 17, 2020

Earlier in June, there were curfews in place for a few days in a row by both the city of LA and the county of LA but curfews came to an end.

Meanwhile, in Orange County, the mandate to wear masks in public during the COVID-19 pandemic was dropped by health officials recently.

Public Health officials also had an update on the nursing home testing saying in a press release that "testing of all residents and staff has been completed in all 315 skilled nursing facilities in LA County, not including Long Beach and Pasadena."

That includes facilities that have had outbreaks and facilities that have not yet had outbreaks.

"Of the over 30,000 tests results currently available from among both residents and staff, 6% tested positive for COVID-19 and 78% of the people testing positive were asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic. Additionally, Public Health continues to see a decrease in skilled nursing facilities seven-day rolling average of daily COVID-19 deaths," the press release said Wednesday.

Ferrer says nursing home resident deaths are averaging 16 or 17/day, down from 25 or 26 about a month ago. Facilities will be able to resume limited visits, if they go four weeks with no new cases. County suspended nursing home visits on April 24. @KNX1070 https://t.co/XhIrqZoi1n — Claudia Peschiutta (@ReporterClaudia) June 17, 2020

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed 19 new deaths and 1,071 new cases of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Monday June 15.

14 people who died were over the age of 65 years old, 10 of those had underlying health conditions. Four people who died were between the ages of 41 and 65 years old, and one person had underlying health conditions. One person who died was between the ages of 18 to 40 years old and this person did not have underlying health conditions.

There are now 73,791 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of LA County, and a total of 2,926 deaths.

Barbara Ferrer said inspectors visited about 2,000 restaurants over the weekend and found about half not in compliance with the new rules to prevent spread of virus.

>1k new #COVID19 cases announced in LA County, pushing total close to 74k. Deaths are approaching 3k. @lapublichealth's Barbara Ferrer says inspectors visited about 2k restaurants over weekend and found about half not in compliance w/new rules to prevent spread of virus. @KNX1070 — Claudia Peschiutta (@ReporterClaudia) June 15, 2020

Marching in solidarity? Protect yourself, your family and the community by wearing a mask. #BYOM pic.twitter.com/0dErMgZJNs — Los Angeles County (@CountyofLA) June 14, 2020

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed 61 new deaths and 1,275 new cases of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Wednesday June 10.

42 people who died were over the age of 65 years old, 37 of those had underlying health conditions. 13 people who died were between the ages of 41 and 65 years old, and 9 had underlying health conditions. Three people who died were between the ages of 18 to 40 years old and all three had underlying health conditions. Three deaths were reported by Long Beach.

There are now 67,064 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of LA County, and a total of 2,768 deaths.

This is why, even if you’ve tested negative, it is still important to self-quarantine for 14 days, and if you start to develop symptoms, contact your provider. If you are positive, you will need to isolate for an additional 10 days. pic.twitter.com/MPgoDU31la — LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) June 8, 2020

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed 56 new deaths and 1,225 new cases of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Tuesday June 9.

Thirty-eight people who died were over the age of 65 years old, 15 people who died were between the ages of 41 and 65 years old, and two people who died were between the ages of 18 to 40 years old. Forty-four people had underlying health conditions including 33 people over the age of 65 years old, 10 people between the ages of 41 to 65 years old and one person between the ages of 18 and 40 years old. One death was reported by the City of Long Beach.

There are now 65,822 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of LA County, and a total of 2,707 deaths.

Were you protesting near people who were not wearing masks? You should:



--Self-quarantine for 2 weeks

--Get tested if you develop symptoms pic.twitter.com/qbJ7ptjU8Y — Los Angeles County (@CountyofLA) June 9, 2020

LA County Public Health gave an update on COVID-19 Monday June 8.

Health officials confirmed there were 10 new deaths and 823 new cases of the novel virus.

To date, Public Health has identified 64,644 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of LA County, and a total of 2,655 deaths.

Ferrer said she applauds all of those who have stood for justice in the last two weeks. Ferrer said the recommendation is self-quarantining for 14 days if there's been exposure.

"So many are returning to jobs in what feels like a different economy and a different workplace," she said. "COVID-19 remains easy to transmit and it does continue to cause serious illness and death."

Did you attend a protest recently? @lapublichealth advises to self-quarantine for 2 weeks and monitor yourself for symptoms of #COVID19 https://t.co/xc2bQVZbSi pic.twitter.com/8oodTLKBrK — Los Angeles County (@CountyofLA) June 9, 2020

Ferrer reminded everyone to wear a cloth covering when outside and practicing social distancing.

Six people who died were over the age of 65 years old; and three of those had underlying health conditions. Three people who died were between the ages of 41 and 65 years old, and two of those had underlying health conditions. Information on the one death from the city of Pasadena is available on their website, Barbara Ferrer said Monday.

JUNE

LA County Public Health gave an update on COVID-19 last week.

Health officials confirmed there were 44 new deaths and 1,469 new cases of the novel virus.

To date, Public Health has identified 59,650 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of LA County, and a total of 2,531 deaths.

The large increase in positive cases reflects a lag in reporting from one lab of over 500 positive cases.

Twenty-seven people who died were over the age of 65 years old; 15 people who died were between the ages of 41 and 65 years old, and two people who died were between the ages of 18 and 40 years old. Thirty-four people had underlying health conditions including 21 people over the age of 65 years old, 12 people between the ages of 41 to 65 years old, and one person between the ages of 18 and 40 years old.

“If you think you may have been exposed to COVID-19 while out and in large crowds, because you were in close contact for at least 15 minutes with people who were not wearing face coverings, please remember that the virus has a long incubation period and it will be important to remain away from others as much as possible for 14 days,” said Dr. Barbara Ferrer with LA County Public Health.

LA County Public Health gave an update on COVID-19 Wednesday June 3.

Health officials confirmed there were 46 new deaths and 1,155 new cases of the novel virus.

To date, Public Health has identified 58,234 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of LA County, and a total of 2,489 deaths.

Thirty-four people who died were over the age of 65 years old; six people who died were between the ages of 41 and 65 years old, and one person who died was between the ages of 18 and 40 years old. Twelve people were reported to have underlying health conditions including 11 people over the age of 65 years old and one person between the ages of 41 to 65 years old. Five deaths were reported by the City of Long Beach.

LA County Public Health gave an update on COVID-19 on the first day of June.

Health officials confirmed there were 22 new deaths and 978 new cases of the novel virus.

To date, Public Health has identified 55,968 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of LA County, and a total of 2,384 deaths.

Sixteen people who died were over the age of 65 years old and six people who died were between the ages of 41 and 65 years old. Twenty-one people had underlying health conditions including 15 people over the age of 65 years old and six people between the ages of 41 to 65 years old.

"Public Health supports the need for LA County residents to exercise their first amendment rights. There is, however, risk that these gatherings can become super-spreader events where a great deal of transmission of the COVID-19 virus can occur," a press release from LA County Public Health said Monday. "Everyone engaging in peaceful protest should always wear a face covering over their nose and mouth and keep six feet apart from others not in your household."

COVID-19 Daily Update:

June 01, 2020

Cases: 978 (55,968 total)

Deaths: 22 (2,384 total) pic.twitter.com/yN1LoCer0r — LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) June 1, 2020

MAY

LA County Public Health gave an update on COVID-19 on Saturday, May 30th.

Health officials confirmed there were 48 new deaths and 2,112 new cases of the novel virus. This is the largest number of recorded cases in one day since the start of pandemic.

The high number of cases was said to be due to a backlog in processing tests.

36 of the fatalities were over the age of 65 years old and 8 people who died were between the ages of 41 and 65 years old. Thirty-three people had underlying health conditions.

To date, Public Health has identified 53,651 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of LA County, and a total of 2,338 deaths.

“Each day, we join with families and friends mourning the devastating loss of life to COVID-19 and we keep those who are grieving in our thoughts and prayers,” said Barbara Ferrer, PhD, MPH, MEd, Director of Public Health. “LA County is on our recovery journey, and as more businesses and spaces re-open, it has never been more important – as individuals, businesses and institutions – to use the tools that we all have to take care of each other and to continue to slow the spread of COVID-19. This means practicing physical distancing, wearing cloth face coverings when in public, and adhering to all directives in the Health Officer order.”

On Friday, there were 50 new deaths, 1,824 new cases, 43,052 total cases, 51,562 cases in L.A. County, and 2,042 deaths in LA County since the start of the pandemic.

Dr. Barbara Ferrer, Director of Public Health addressed the recent political protests in L.A. She said protests are one of only two events allowed by the state.

Thirty-three people who died were over the age of 65 years old; 13 people who died were between the ages of 41 and 65 years old, and four people who died were between the ages of 18 and 40 years old. Forty people had underlying health conditions including 30 people over the age of 65 years old, seven people between the ages of 41 to 65 years old, and three people between the ages of 18 and 40 years old.

"We expect cloth face coverings and social distancing, and for them to be peaceful protests. Please protect each other," Ferrer said.

As for when exactly restaurants will open for on-site dining in L.A. County, Ferrer says the new notice will be posted soon.

There's been a lot of back and forth on when restaurants will be allowed to resume on-site dining in LA County. @lapublichealth's Barbara Ferrer says the new order will be posted shortly so...later today. @KNX1070 — Claudia Peschiutta (@ReporterClaudia) May 29, 2020

“So many people in our community are experiencing loss and sorrow during this pandemic. We think of you every day, and we are deeply sorry for your loss,” Ferrer said.

“As we enter the weekend, and are perhaps out of our homes and visiting businesses and public spaces, please remember that practicing physical distancing and wearing a cloth face covering when you are around other people are the tools we have to prevent further spread of the virus. For businesses, the implementation of directives in the protocols for reopening are the most effective strategy for protecting employees and customers. These actions are essential for slowing the spread and preventing many people from becoming seriously ill and requiring hospitalization. They are essential for saving lives.”

LA County Public Health gave an update on COVID-19 May 27, Wednesday.

There were 53 new deaths and 933 new cases of COVID-19 in LA County.

35 people who died were over the age of 65 years old; 30 of those had underlying health conditions. 14 people who died were between the ages of 41 and 65 years old, and 12 of those people had underlying health conditions. Two people who died were between the ages of 18 and 40 years old. One of those people had underlying health conditions. Information on the 2 deaths from Long Beach are available on their website, according to Barbara Ferrer with LA County Public Health.

There are now 48,700 cases and 2,195 deaths in LA County.

She said there are 4,861 healthcare workers and first responders who have confirmed cases of COVID-19. The vast majority of cases are among skilled nursing facilities and hospitals, she said. 30 healthcare workers have lost their lives, she said.

Officials gave an update for the death toll the day after Memorial Day weekend.

There were 27 new deaths and 1,843 new cases of COVID-19 in LA County.

"Although this is the highest number of new cases reported in a day, some of these cases are from a backlog of test results," a press release from LA County Public Health said Tuesday afternoon.

Twenty people who died were over the age of 65 years old; six people who died were between the ages of 41 and 65 years old, and one person who died was between the ages of 18 and 40 years old. Seventeen people had underlying health conditions including 11 people over the age of 65 years old and six people between the ages of 41 to 65 years old.

There are now 47,822 cases and 2,143 deaths in LA County.

#COVID19 update: @lapublichealth announces 1,843 new cases, the highest daily total reported. Officials note the high number is due, in part, to a backlog of test results being reported. This pushes the total number of cases close to 48,000. @KNX1070 — Claudia Peschiutta (@ReporterClaudia) May 26, 2020

LA County Public Health officials gave an update on Memorial Day.

There were 12 additional deaths and 1,047 new cases. Seven people who died were over the age of 65 years old and one person who died was between the ages of 18 and 40 years old. Seven people over the age of 65 years old had underlying health conditions. Two deaths were reported by the City of Long Beach and two deaths by the City of Pasadena.

The county's totals sit at 46,018 COVID-19 cases and 2,116 deaths.

LA County Health officials announced 35 additional deaths due to the coronavirus crisis Friday, May 22. Another 1,072 new cases of the virus have also been confirmed today.

The county's totals sit at 2,049 deaths and 43,052 COVID-19 cases.

25 people who died were over the age of 65 years old and 20 of the people who died had underlying health conditions. Five people were between the ages of 41 to 65 years old and three of them had underlying health conditions. Three deaths were reported from Long Beach and two deaths from Pasadena, according to Dr. Barbara Ferrer.

LA County Public Health officials gave an update Thursday on COVID-19.

LA County Health officials announced 46 additional deaths due to the coronavirus crisis Thursday, May 21. Another 1,204 new cases of the virus have also been confirmed today.

LA County Public Health's Dr. Barbara Ferrer said 92 percent of the people, who have passed away from COVID-19, had underlying health conditions.

The county's totals sit at 2,016 deaths and 42,037 COVID-19 cases.

Ferrer said it's a very "sad milestone."

28 people who died were over the age of 65 years old and 20 of the people who died had underlying health conditions. 12 people were between the ages of 41 to 65 years old and 10 of them had underlying health conditions. Information on the 3 deaths from Long Beach and 3 deaths from Pasadena are available on their websites, according to Ferrer.

LA County Public Health officials gave an update Wednesday a day after the highest one-day death toll since the COVID-19 crisis began.

LA County Health officials announced 57 additional deaths due to the coronavirus crisis Wednesday, May 20. Another 1,324 new cases of the virus have also been confirmed today.

LA County Public Health's Dr. Barbara Ferrer said 92 percent of the people, who have passed away from COVID-19, had underlying health conditions.

The county's totals sit at 1,970 deaths and 40,857 COVID-19 cases.

30 people who died were over the age of 65 years old and 24 of the people who died had underlying health conditions. 12 people were between the ages of 41 to 65 years old and six of them had underlying health conditions. Two who died were in the age range of 18 to 40 and both of the people had underlying health conditions. Information on the 10 deaths from Long Beach and three deaths from Pasadena are available on their websites, according to Ferrer.

LA County Health officials announced 76 additional deaths due to the coronavirus crisis Tuesday May 19. Another 1,183 new cases of the virus have also been confirmed today.

Tuesday was the highest one-day death tolls since the coronavirus crisis began.

LA County Public Health's Dr. Barbara Ferrer said 92 percent of the people, who have passed away from COVID-19, had underlying health conditions.

The county's totals sit at 1,913 deaths and 39,573 new cases.

52 people who died were over the age of 65 years old and 48 of the people who died had underlying health conditions. 19 people were between the ages of 41 to 65 years old and 14 of them had underlying health conditions. 2 who died were in the age range of 18 to 40 and both of the people had underlying health conditions. Information on the one death from Long Beach and 2 deaths from Pasadena are available on their websites, according to Ferrer. Two previous reported deaths were outside the LA County jurisdiction, Ferrer said.

HEALTH CARE WORKERS

LA County Health officials announced 18 additional deaths due to the coronavirus crisis Monday May 18. Another 477 new cases of the virus have also been confirmed today.

LA County Public Health's Dr. Barbara Ferrer said the number of cases is usually lower because a number of the labs aren't open on the weekends.

The county's totals sit at 1,839 deaths and 38,451 new cases.

Ferrer said 92 percent of the people, who have passed away from COVID-19, had underlying health conditions.

She said there could be "more infected people out and about" now that some restrictions have been lifted in the county.

15 people who died were over the age of 65 years old and 12 of the people who died had underlying health conditions. Three people were between the ages of 41 to 65 years old and all of them had underlying health conditions.

Ferrer also gave an update on institutional settings.

"The vast majority of people who died in institutional settings did reside in skilled nursing facilities," Ferrer said.

Ferrer said 164 women who were pregnant tested positive for COVID-19 and 80 percent, who were tested and positive, were symptomatic. To date, she said there have been 38 live births and 2 non-live births. 31 infants were tested at birth and all were negative, Ferrer said.

Among healthcare workers, including first responders, a total of 4,298 healthcare workers and first responders have confirmed cases of COVID-19 in LA County. Cases have been identified among 26 different occupational settings including hospitals and nursing facilities. She said nurses account for the majority of the positive cases - 46 percent. 26 healthcare workers have passed away from COVID-19, 6 additional people since last week, according to Ferrer.

She also wanted to update on skilled nursing facilities: as of today, 141 skilled nursing facilities have tested all their staff and resident and an additional 74 are going to be tested. Of the over 3,600 people who have been tested and have results, 402 tested positive for COVID-19. She said only 57 were symptomatic. She said 86 percent of the people who tested positive were asymptomatic or could be pre-symptomatic.

"Most importantly, these results highlight the fact that there may be, in any settings, significant numbers of people who are positive for COVID-19 with no symptoms and this is particularly problematic in our institutional settings," she said.

.@lapublichealth's Barbara Ferrer says 4 confirmed cases of inflammatory syndrome linked to #COVID19 among kids in LA County. Twenty one suspect cases under investigation. No deaths reported. More info on MIS-C from CDC: https://t.co/y2fsozKAYk @KNX1070 — Claudia Peschiutta (@ReporterClaudia) May 18, 2020

On Friday, health officials announced 47 additional deaths due to the coronavirus crisis. Another 962 new cases of the virus have also been confirmed today.

LA County Public Health's Dr. Barbara Ferrer said the total number of confirmed cases in institutionalized settings is 9,103 and this includes 5,895 residents and 3,208 who are staff.

Ferrer said 892 people, who were living in institutional settings, have died from COVID-19 and this represents 51 percent of all of our deaths. The vast majority of the people, who lived in institutional settings, did reside in skilled nursing homes, according to Ferrer.

She said there will be new rounds of inspections at every facility by health facility nurses, she said.

She said there would be an update on that next week.

The county's totals sit at 1,755 deaths and 36,259 new cases.

37 people who died were over the age of 65 years old and 30 of the people who died had underlying health conditions. Five people were between the ages of 41 to 65 years old and two of them had underlying health conditions. Information on the five deaths being reported by the city of Long Beach is on their websites, according to Ferrer.

On Thursday May 14, Los Angeles County health officials announced 51 additional deaths due to the coronavirus crisis. Another 925 new cases of the virus have also been confirmed today.

LA County Public Health's Dr. Barbara Ferrer said she wants to put it in context by comparing COVID-19 with influenza, which is a much longer season. She said "last year 125 people died from influenza and the year before about 300 people died. On average we lose 250 lives to influenza every year."

"You can understand why the mortality rate for COVID-19 is so worrisome because it far exceeds what we are normally used to seeing with a virus or communicable disease," Ferrer said.

The county's totals sit at 1,709 deaths and 35,329 new cases.

35 people who died were over the age of 65 years old and 32 of the people who died had underlying health conditions. 12 people were between the ages of 41 to 65 years old and 11 of them had underlying health conditions. Information on the one death being reported by the city of Long Beach and the three deaths by Pasadena are on their websites, according to Ferrer.

On Friday, May 8, Los Angeles County officials reported 883 new cases of coronavirus and 51 new deaths.

Information on the two deaths reported by Pasadena is available on their website, according to Dr. Barbara Ferrer.

This brings the total number to 30,296 positive cases and 1,468 deaths in LA County.

39 people who died were over the age of 65 years old, of those 36 had underlying health conditions.

8 people who died were between the ages of 41 to 65 years old, and 6 of those had underlying health conditions.

Two of the people who passed away ere between the age of 18 and 40 and one person had underlying health conditions.

NEW CDC GUIDELINES FOR SELF ISOLATION

On Friday May 1, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed 62 new deaths and 1,065 new cases of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).

46 people who died were over the age of 65 years old, of those 39 had underlying health conditions.

7 people who died were between the ages of 41 to 65 years old, and all of those had underlying health conditions.

One person who died was between the ages of 18 and 40 years old and did not have underlying health conditions.

This week the CDC updated their guidance on how long people are positive for COVID-19 should self-isolate and the new guidance directs people, who are positive for COVID-19, to self isolate for 10 days and 72 hours after fever and symptoms subside.

"There's new evidence that suggests the virus may shed for a longer period of time which means that a person may be able to infect other people for a longer period of time than was initially thought when we had the guidance that people needed to isolate for 7 days plus 72 hours after fever and symptoms subsided," Ferrer said.

She said as a reminder if you test positive for COVID-19 you do need to self isolate immediately and away from all people as much as possible.

Ferrer said there are 106 pregnant women who have tested positive for COVID-19. 27 of the women who tested positive for COVID-19 completed their pregnancies and resulted in 26 live births, she said.

“Our hearts go out to the family that did lost a baby from their pregnancy,” Ferrer said.

She said the 22 infants who were tested at birth were all negative for COVID-19.

"We don't have signs that pregnant women are transmitting the infection to their newborns at this point in time in LA County," Ferrer said.

NURSING HOMES AND TESTING IN LA COUNTY

On Monday, the death toll from the virus stood at 942 deaths with 20,417 total positive cases in LA County.

Dr. Barbara Ferrer said there are 29 new deaths and 900 new cases Monday.

25 people who died were over the age of 65 and 18 of the people who died had underlying health conditions. Three were between the ages of 41 and 65. One of the people who were between the ages of 41 and 65 had underlying health conditions.

Ferrer said when looking at data by community poverty levels, she said people living in areas with high rates of poverty had three times the rate of deaths for COVID-19, 16.9 percent per 100,000 people when compared with people living in communities with very low poverty levels where death rates was 5.5 percent per 100,000 people.

"This data is deeply disturbing, and it speaks to the need for immediate action in communities with disproportionately high rates of deaths," Ferrer said adding this would mean increased testing, better access to healthcare and more accurate and culturally appropriate information about the virus.

Ferrer said the department is investigating 312 institutionalized settings with at least one confirmed case of COVID-19 including investigations at nursing homes, assisted living facilities, shelters, treatment centers, supportive living and correctional facilities.

"I am sad to report that there are 423 residents who lived in institutionalized settings that died from COVID-19 and this now represents 45 percent of all of our deaths here in LA County," Ferrer said. She said the majority of the residents did live in the skilled nursing facilities.

As of Monday, LA County will now require increased testing for all residents and staff working at nursing homes in LA County, with and without symptoms, similar to what the city of LA said it would do.

Over the weekend, the death toll from the virus stood at 913 deaths with 19,528 total positive cases in LA County.

#COVID19 update: @lapublichealth's Barbara Ferrer says death rate 3x higher among LA County residents living in poverty, calls it "deeply disturbing." @KNX1070 — Claudia Peschiutta (@ReporterClaudia) April 27, 2020

COVID-19 IS LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH IN LA COUNTY:

In late April, LA Public Health announced COVID-19 had become the leading cause of death in LA County.

Dr. Barbara Ferrer reported an additional 52 deaths Friday. She reported 1,035 new cases today.

43 people who died were over the age of 65, and 34 of the people who were over the age of 65 had underlying health conditions.

7 people who died who were between the ages of 41 and 65 and all of these people also had underlying health conditions. There was one person under between the ages of 18 and 40 who also had underlying health conditions.

Ferrer said there were 68 additional deaths Thursday.

On Thursday, she said coronavirus is the leading cause of death - more than heart disease or emphysema.

KNX reporter Claudia Peschiutta reports that Ferrer says an average of 44 people per day are dying from COVID-19 since April 12. For comparison, she notes 31 people per day die from coronary heart disease and 5 people/day die from flu (during flu season) in LA County.

Ferrer says an average of 44 people/day are dying from COVID-19 (since April 12). For comparison, she notes 31 people/day die from coronary heart disease and 5 people/day die from flu (during flu season) in LA County. @KNX1070 https://t.co/SYtmaZknRZ — Claudia Peschiutta (@ReporterClaudia) April 23, 2020

APRIL FIGURES

April saw high, one day totals when it comes to the number of deaths from COVID-19 in LA County.

On Thursday Ferrer, the LA County Health Department Director, said there were 399 new cases of COVID-19. In the last 48 hours, there were 871 new cases.

Ferrer said there were 55 additional deaths Thursday adding it was the highest daily total after reporting high totals on Wednesday and Tuesday.

43 people who died were over the age of 65, and 39 of the people who were over the age of 65 had underlying health conditions. Nine of the people were between the ages of 41 to 65 years old. All of these people had underlying health conditions.

There are now 10,854 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of LA County, and a total of 455 deaths. She said the LA County mortality rate is 4.2 percent.

She also confirmed 33 cases of homeless individuals.

Ferrer, the LA County Health Department Director, said there were 472 new cases of COVID-19. In the last 48 hours, there were 1,142 new cases.

Ferrer said there were 42 additional deaths Wednesday adding it was the highest number of deaths for any single day that week so far.

24 people who died were over the age of 65, and 13 of the people who were over the age of 65 had underlying health conditions. Eleven of the people were between the ages of 41 to 65 years old. Seven of the people, who were between 41 and 65 of age, had underlying health conditions.

One person who died was between the age of 18 and 40 and also had underlying health conditions, she said.

There are now 10,496 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of LA County, and a total of 402 deaths. She said the LA County mortality rate is 3.8 percent.

She also confirmed 28 cases among homeless individuals, six of whom were sheltered and are isolated.

In April, week Ferrer said there were 40 additional deaths Tuesday adding it was the highest number of deaths she had to report in any single day since the start of the COVID-19 crisis.

Twenty-five people who died were over the age of 65 and 17 of the people who were over the age of 65 had underlying health conditions. Nine of the people were between the ages of 41 to 65 years old. Five of the people who were between 41 and 65 of age had underlying health conditions.