The Biden administration’s goal is to get at least seventy percent of the adult population inoculated with their first shot of the vaccine by the Fourth of July holiday, when millions of Americans are looking forward to celebrating the country’s independence.
So far, approximately 56% of adults have received their first shot of the vaccine, and approximately 105 million have been fully-vaccinated. Pfizer has already previously applied for authorization to have it’s vaccine ready to administer to children between 02 and 06, and adolescents 12 to 15, within the coming weeks.
“As we stand here today, almost 150 million Americans have gotten at least one shot,” Biden said Tuesday from the White House. “Over 105 million are fully-vaccinated and among our most vulnerable population, seniors, were nearing 85% of those who’ve gotten their first shot. 70% of seniors are now fully-vaccinated. It’s a dramatic turnaround from where we were in January when less than 2% of adults and less than 1% of seniors were fully-vaccinated…
“Our new phase will focus on three areas. First, kids, children between the ages of 12 to 15 years of age. They’re not yet available for the vaccine. The FDA scientists are currently reviewing the data to decide if and when to authorize that age range for vaccinations.
“I want to make it absolutely clear. You do need to get vaccinated. Getting vaccinated not only protects you. It also reduces the risk you give the virus to somebody else. It could save your life or the lives of those you love…”
Addressing those who haven’t yet received a shot of the vaccine, or have been hesitant to do so, he mentioned incentives that a certain segment of the population will find reason to criticize.
“We’re working with major businesses like grocery stores to provide special deals like discounts to shoppers who come to the stores to get vaccinated… further, we’re working with major sports leagues to launch special promotions with their fans…”
According to health officials, millions of more Americans need to be vaccinated before a positivity rate can be reached that is low enough for a return to normalcy as it was before 2020. Whether this goal can be achieved, remains to be seen.
Sources: The Week, NY Times, AP News.
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