Flu activity is increasing across Los Angeles County, prompting public health officials Friday to urge residents to get vaccinated and take additional steps to prevent the spread of the virus.
Surveillance data show a steady rise in flu cases, with 17.1% of specimens testing positive for influenza during the week ending Jan. 24, up from 11% the previous week, according to the L.A. County Department of Public Health.
Emergency department visits for influenza-like illness also increased to 7.7%, compared with 6.4% the week before, while flu-related hospitalizations rose from 222 to 261, health officials said.
“Flu activity is expected to continue to increase across Los Angeles County, and while many people are already vaccinated, some may still not be protected,” Dr. Muntu Davis, L.A. County Health Officer, said in a statement. “Flu vaccination is the most effective way to reduce your risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death from infection, for yourself, your loved ones and your community.”
Health officials continue to recommend annual flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older, noting that this year’s vaccine remains effective at generating an immune response and preventing hospitalization, including against the newly circulating subclade K influenza virus.
Although anyone can become seriously ill from the flu, officials said people at highest risk for complications include children younger than 5, adults 65 and older, pregnant individuals and people who are immunocompromised or have underlying health conditions.
In addition to vaccination, public health officials are urging residents to take everyday preventive measures, including frequent hand-washing, covering coughs and sneezes, staying home when sick and wearing a well-fitting mask in crowded indoor spaces or around people at higher risk.
Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can cause fever, cough, headaches and body aches and may lead to serious complications including pneumonia, worsening of chronic medical conditions or death.
Residents can find vaccination sites by going to ph.lacounty.gov/vaccineclinics. Additional information about flu prevention is available at ph.lacounty.gov/fluvaccine. The Public Health Infoline is available daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 1-833-540-0473.