California sees summer uptick in COVID-19 cases. Here's what we know - ABC7 Los Angeles

What the report says

KABC-TV reported that California is seeing a summer rise in COVID-19 activity, with state health indicators showing more spread than about a month earlier. For the week ending July 18, health officials said 3.4% of COVID tests in California were positive, compared with just above 1% one month before. The Los Angeles-based report said emergency department visits and other measures are also moving upward.

Dr. Sharon Balter of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health told KABC-TV that late-summer COVID increases have occurred in recent years and that officials track a regular set of specimens to understand community trends. CDC data cited in the report shows COVID activity increasing in multiple states, including California, Texas, Florida, Missouri and Utah, though overall levels remain low.

Health officials are also watching wastewater and hospital admission data. Balter said Los Angeles County is seeing modest increases in both. The report emphasized that vaccination remains recommended in California for people 6 months and older, with additional doses recommended for some higher-risk groups, including older adults, immunocompromised people, pregnant people or those planning pregnancy, and very young children.

KABC-TV also noted public confusion around federal vaccine guidance and cited a KFF poll finding that four in 10 adults plan to get a COVID shot this year. Major pharmacy chains, including CVS, say vaccines are currently available without a prescription and are covered at no cost under most insurance plans, including Medicare Part B. Balter said now is an appropriate time to get vaccinated, while updated formulations are expected soon.