Another 57 deaths were confirmed today by health officials with the Los Angeles County Health Department, bringing the county's death toll up to 1,970. Another 1,342 cases were also confirmed today, bringing the countywide total of COVID-19 cases to 40,857.
Dr. Barbara Ferrer also offered some insight on a new antibody study done in partnership with the University of Southern California and the LRW Group. The serology study tested more than 1,000 adults living in L.A. County between May 8 and May 12. Based on the results, researchers say approximately 2.1% of the County's adult population has the antibody to the virus.
An earlier study released last month found a much higher number of adults - 4.1% - who had the antibody for COVID-19, however, researchers say the two results are not statistically significant and could be due to random variation.
“Many people across the county have lost loved ones to COVID-19. To those who are experiencing devastating loss, we share in your sorrow, and you are in our thoughts and prayers,” said Barbara Ferrer, PhD, MPH, MEd, Director of Public Health. “We are continuing to do serology testing with samples of LA County residents. This testing allows us to better understand how many people have been exposed to COVID-19 and how the virus is showing up in our communities.”
The study did not include some of the highest risk groups, but department officials say they plan on surveying those living in congregate settings, usch as skilled nursing facilities, homeless shelters and jails. A fourth survey that will include children is also being planned for the future.
Testing capacity continued to increase in L.A. County with more than 380,000 individuals tested so far. About 9% of people have tested positive. Currently, about 1,531 people are currently hospitalized due to complications from COVID-19 with 28% of those in the ICU and 19% on ventilators.
The number of confirmed cases around Southern California include:
- Los Angeles County: 40,857 cases - 1,970 deaths
- Orange County: 4,742 cases - 98 deaths
- Riverside County: 6,053 cases - 270 deaths
- Ventura County: cases 837 cases - 28 deaths
- San Bernardino County: 3,707 cases - 157 deaths
- San Diego County: 6,026 cases - 222 deaths
Statewide, there are more than 81,904 cases with at least 3,296 deaths reported. According to data collected by Johns Hopkins University, there are more than 1,541,110 cases nationwide with the death toll reaching 92,712 by Tuesday afternoon.
Photo: Getty Images