As COVID-19 case rates increase amid other indications of a winter surge, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health officials continue encouraging residents to get vaccinated.

The average number of cases reported per day has been steadily increasing since Nov. 1, with 1,300 recorded on Nov. 10, a 24% increase from the previous week. Average daily hospital admissions have increased 19% from the previous week, with the county recording 77 admissions per day, up from 65 the week before. The current case rate is now 86 new cases per 100,000 individuals.

Facing the potential of a winter with a high level of community risk from respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, one area of particular concern is the low number of residents 65 or older who have received an updated bivalent booster dose. Only 23% have received a bivalent booster, far below the 60% target.

For information, visit ph.lacounty.gov/howtogetvaccinated.