Knowing the local COVID-19 Hospital Admissions Level can help you to decide what protective measures to take. This level is reported weekly by the CDC. Everyone needs to take extra precautions when the level is high. When the level is lower, use your situation, personal preferences, and comfort level to decide what to do. Take extra steps to stay safe and protect others if you or the people you spend time with are at higher risk for severe disease.
- Everyone 6 months and older should get the
updated fall 2023 COVID-19 vaccine
to protect themselves and
reduce the spread of the virus. It is the best way to
protect yourself from getting seriously ill and dying from
COVID. Vaccination also lowers your risk of getting long COVID.
- Visit ph.lacounty.gov/vaccines to find a location near you. Call
1-833-540-0473 if you need help getting a vaccine or are homebound. Information is also available in many languages 24/7 by calling
2-1-1.
- Wear a mask that fits and filters well.
While all masks give you some protection from COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses, well-fitting respirators give you the best protection. N95, KN95, and KF94 are all respirators. See ph.lacounty.gov/masks for more information on the types of masks and when they must be worn in Los Angeles County.
- Improve ventilation (air flow). Open windows and doors, use fans and portable air cleaners, run heating and air, and upgrade filters. When possible, choose outdoor spaces for group activities. For more information see the CDC webpage Improving Ventilation in Your Home and the California Department of Public Health flyer Tips for Reducing Risk Indoors.
- Test for COVID-19 if you are sick or have been exposed to COVID.
Consider testing and before visiting someone at higher
risk for severe illness. Visit ph.lacounty.gov/covidtests to learn more about when and how to get a test.
- Stay home when sick. If you have symptoms of COVID-19, stay away from others, and get tested. If you have any respiratory symptoms (cough, runny nose, sore throat) wear a mask if you need to be around others. See
ph.lacounty.gov/covidcare.
- Ask for COVID-19 medicine right away if you think you have COVID-19, even if your symptoms are mild. Treatment can prevent you from getting very sick but should be started soon after your symptoms begin. Plan ahead to avoid delays:
- Make a list of all your medicines, including over the counter medicines and supplements. The doctor or pharmacy will need to know what medicines you are taking before they can prescribe treatment.
- Visit ph.lacounty.gov/covidmedicines to learn how you can get medicine if you get COVID symptoms.
If you test positive for COVID-19 or if you are a close contact to someone with COVID-19, you must follow all instructions to protect others. See ph.lacounty.gov/covidisolation and ph.lacounty.gov/covidcontacts.
For more information, see
How to Protect Yourself and Others.
