President Joe Biden announced during a speech Thursday night that states must make the COVID-19 vaccine available to all eligible adults by May 1. In his speech, he outlined plans to increase vaccination distribution and expand the number of facilities that will administer the vaccine.
Biden urged Americans to get vaccinated. His speech came one year to the day since the pandemic forced Americans to socially isolate to slow the spread of the COVID-19 disease, which has already killed more than 500,000 people in the United States.
Useful information: USA: More domains used in COVID-19 phishing attacks seized
“I need you to get vaccinated as soon as it’s your turn and as soon as you have the opportunity,” Biden said, adding that “there’s a good chance” that small gatherings could take place starting July 4.
Biden said he has doubled the number of federal mass vaccination centers since the vaccination drive began. He also said he will double the number of pharmacies participating in the federal mass vaccination program, making the vaccine available in more than 20,000 pharmacies.
Learn more about vaccines: CDC: Releases guidance for those who have been vaccinated for COVID-19
The government also said it plans to create a website to show people where vaccines will be available. It also plans to set up a helpline for those without internet.
Warning that conditions could worsen as multiple new mutations of the virus have been circulating, Biden urged Americans to get vaccinated, wash their hands and wear a mask.
See also: Pfizer vaccine: More effective against coronavirus variants
“If we don’t remain vigilant and conditions change, then we may have to reintroduce social distancing,” he said. “We’ve made a lot of progress. This is not the time to back down.”
Information source: cnet.com
