As COVID infections continue to decline, LA County nears 26,000 deaths

COVID-19-related infections, hospitalizations and deaths continued to decline in Los Angeles County.

It’s a long way from last fall, when residents faced a new wave of coronavirus cases that led to a huge winter wave. Despite improvements, which authorities have largely linked to vaccination rates, an impending death stage is a reminder that caution should always be exercised.

The county reported 29 new COVID-19-related deaths on Saturday, including two in adults aged 18 to 29. The death toll now stands at 25,999.

“I want to recognize that this is a difficult time for the thousands of people who are grieving the loss of a loved one. As we mark the saddest of milestones, acknowledging the loss of just under 26,000 family and friends in LA County, we send our thoughts and prayers to all who mourn and remain. particularly focused on ending this pandemic, ”Barbara County Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer said.

Authorities confirmed 1,602 new cases on Saturday and 947 ongoing hospitalizations – a drop of 17% from the number of hospitalizations last week. The county’s weekly case rate is about 86 new cases per 100,000 people.

As the numbers continue to decline, a sign the county has escaped a possible Labor Day increase, officials are still urging residents to get vaccinated and stay vigilant as the season changes.

“We usually see respiratory viruses thrive in the colder weather and when we move our business indoors. If we increase our vaccination rate, protect ourselves and others with masks, and use extensive testing to identify those infected early so they can self-isolate and quarantine their close contacts, we stand a chance. ‘avoid another winter wave like the one we suffered last year, “said Ferrer.

The majority of infections have occurred in unvaccinated individuals, according to the California Department of Public Health, which reported on Friday that the rate of cases among those who are not vaccinated is eight times higher than those who are vaccinated.

In LA County, about 67.5% of residents have been partially vaccinated and 60.3% are fully vaccinated, according to an analysis by The Times. These numbers are slightly higher than the state total.