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Monkeypox Cases Have Doubled in Los Angeles + COVID World News

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Hollywood, one of the areas where Monkeypox cases doubled in LA.

In the last few weeks, many countries have reopened their borders to travelers. While it’s exciting to go back to our favorite destinations, let’s not overlook what the pandemic has taught us: taking care of ourselves while traveling is more important today than ever.

In spite of the fact that most of the pandemic seems to be behind us, a recent disease is causing concern in the U.S.: Los Angeles is currently experiencing an increase in Monkeypox cases. Let’s take a closer look.

Monkeypox in Los Angeles: “Cases Have More Than Doubled in the Past Two Weeks”

In the last two weeks, despite the efforts to better track the virus and vaccinate vulnerable groups, Los Angeles County has seen a spike in Monkeypox cases.

In this section we’ll cover:

  • The current number of Monkeypox cases
  • Vaccination status and future prospects
  • A brief review of symptoms
  • Prevention and infection treatment

What Is the Number and Distribution of Monkeypox Cases?

As of Friday 12th, a total of 1,105 Monkeypox cases have been reported countywide. Approximately half of the county’s cases are located in the health service planning area in the central part of the county.

50% of Monkeypox cases were reported in:

  • West Hollywood
  • Hollywood
  • Downtown Los Angeles
  • Eagle Rock
  • Boyle Heights
  • Highland Park
  • Echo Park
  • Silver Lake
  • Los Feliz

Health data shows that 15% of Monkeypox cases in L.A. County are located in the San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys, home to about 22% of the county’s residents.

Additionally, only a few Monkeypox cases were reported in the Antelope and San Gabriel valleys.

Vaccination Status and Future Prospects

On top of the 43,000 Jynneos Monkeypox vaccine doses that were distributed and 90% administered, L. A County has added another 29,000 doses this week.

The following residents will be prioritized for vaccinations:

  • Gay and bisexual men
  • Transgender people who have had multiple sexual partners in the last 14 days
  • Immunocompromised individuals
  • Patients with advanced or controlled HIV infections

Yet, it’s worth mentioning that regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, anyone can get Monkeypox.

An Overview of Monkeypox Symptoms

Monkeypox causes a variety of symptoms, including:

  • Rashes
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Exhaustion
  • Backache and muscle pain
  • Headache
  • Cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, or other respiratory symptoms

If you experience any of these Monkeypox symptoms, we recommend you seek medical attention.

Monkeypox Prevention and Infection Treatment

While Monkeypox symptoms generally go away on their own within 2-3 weeks, some patients may require analgesia and antibiotics for local pain and secondary infections.

It takes very close physical contact for the virus to enter the body. Currently, Monkepox vaccines are the best prevention method. Plus, you can also take action in your daily life by:

  • Avoiding face-to-face or skin-to-skin contact with people with Monkeypox symptoms
  • Cleaning any surfaces that have been touched by an infected person
  • Washing your hands frequently
  • Practicing safe sex

COVID World News

The Cayman Islands Have Lifted All Travel Restrictions

As of August 24, this Caribbean nation is dropping all of its remaining COVID-related restrictions. No additional health-related documentation nor travel authorization will be required for foreign visitors, regardless of their vaccination status.

Japan: “No More Pre-departure Tests Soon”

From September 7, Japan will lift pre-departure testing requirements on travelers who have been vaccinated with a booster shot.

Currently, the government requires all travelers to Japan to take a COVID PCR test 72 hours before departure, register their results, and obtain a QR code for entry.

Key Takeaways

In this recap, we’ve shared a lot of encouraging news. Yet, although it seems almost gone, the COVID-19 pandemic is still here. While planning your next trip, don’t forget to keep yourself and those around you safe by following the health precautions you already know.

Get tested before your next adventure! Find testing locations near you with our international directory.

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