Layered Protections Will Reduce Outbreaks as Individuals Return from Holiday Activities and Travel

AMTV/LOS ANGELES, CA, Dec 27 – Today, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health to prevent a post-holiday COVID-19 surge, residents are asked to layer protections as they return to work and school. Masking indoors remains an easy and sensible precaution to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmissions, limit disruptions related to workplace or school outbreaks, and limit additional stress on health care providers and hospitals.

There is a greater risk of spreading COVID-19 in closed spaces, and the risk is higher for older people. For the best protection, individuals should wear a well-fitted, high-filtration mask such as an N95, KN95, or KF94.

Recently Traveled, Attended a Gathering, or Feeling Sick? Take a COVID-19 Test

As many of us return from holiday activities, knowing our COVID-19 status can help us make sure we don’t spread the illness to others. If you’ve recently traveled, attended a gathering, or feel sick, take a COVID-19 test.

COVID-19 symptoms usually appear within a few days of infection but can take as long as 10 days to appear. In some cases, individuals have no symptoms at all. COVID-19 symptoms could also be mistaken for another illness like the flu.

Don’t have a test? You can get 4 free rapid home tests at COVIDtests.gov. If you need help placing an order, call 1-800-232-023.

Updated Boosters Now Available for Children as Young as 6 Months

Updated boosters for children 6 months and older are now available countywide! Here’s what you need to know:

Boosters protect against original coronavirus strain AND new omicron variants.
Eligibility depends on the child’s primary series.

At High Risk for Severe COVID-19? Talk to your Doctor About COVID-19 Medications Even if Your Symptoms are Minor
Even with minor symptoms, if you are at high risk for COVID-19 complications, it’s important to consult with your doctor or pharmacist about COVID-19 medications right away. This is because oral antiviral medications, like Paxlovid, need to be taken within 5 days of symptom onset to be most effective. Paxlovid is available at local pharmacies with a prescription.

Option 1: Contact your provider to see if tele-health services are available and if you are eligible for a prescription to treat your COVID-19.

Option 2: Call the free Public Health Tele-Health Service at 1-833-540-0473, open 7 days a week, 8:00 am – 8:30 pm; if eligible, medications can be sent to your home.

Therapeutics are only available by prescription from a healthcare provider or pharmacist.