Variant B.1.1.7 appears to be more likely to infect human cells, and a CDC simulation of its transmissibility has raised concerns that it could become the most dominant form of coronavirus in March.
The CDC called for the continued and aggressive distribution of the vaccine in an attempt to stop the tide. “Greater vaccination coverage may be needed to protect the public,” the CDC researchers warned.
At least 12.2 million doses of Covid-19 vaccines have been administered since Friday, according to the CDC, amid a federal launch that has received intense scrutiny and criticism from state officials.
Some states were upset by the news of Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar, who said there was no “reserve stock” of vaccines available for release.
Woe to the supply of vaccines
Oregon Governor Kate Brown said she was “shocked and dismayed” and said her state would have to adopt a two-week delay in vaccinating more seniors.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis said Friday that he was “extremely disappointed that we were lied to” about the reserve vaccines and that the next vaccines “will be delivered in the future of the supply chain.”
“There is no influx of doses, contrary to a call I had with the vice president [and] The Secretary of Health three days ago, where they informed us that we will receive an additional amount available for the states “, said the governor.
Polis estimated that of the remaining 58,000 doses in Colorado, “all or almost all will probably be used by Sunday.”
The governors of Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota wrote to Azar, criticizing the federal plans and hoping that they would be able to purchase vaccines directly from manufacturers.
“Without additional supply or direct purchase authorization, our states could be forced to cancel plans for public vaccination clinics in the coming weeks, which are expected to vaccinate tens of thousands. It’s time for the Trump administration to do the right thing and give us help put an end to this pandemic, “the letter said.
Pfizer on Friday tried to reassure the state leadership and the public about the production of its vaccine, saying it does not anticipate any interruption in transport.
“Operation Warp Speed asked us to start delivering the second dose only recently. As a result, we have all two doses of previous deliveries on hand to the US. We work non-stop to produce millions more every day.” , Pfizer said in a statement to CNN.
Mask restrictions continue to fluctuate depending on the state
Meanwhile, a recent coronavirus screening at the University of Washington estimates 566,720 deaths as of May 1 in the United States.
The university’s Institute for Health Assessment and Assessment (IHME) said the figure could be reduced by about 32,000 deaths with universal mask requirements.
The requirements on masks are strongly urged by health officials to slow the spread of coronavirus, and its implementation will have a direct effect on future infections and deaths. State and local responses have varied widely. Some states continue to disregard mask directives, allowing companies to set their own rules.
On Friday, Mississippi extended its clothing mandate in all counties except the nine counties until February 3rd.
“It’s important that we continue to take this virus seriously. We’re working to vaccinate Mississippians, but we continue to distance ourselves, keep meetings small, and wear a mask,” said Governor Tate Reeves.
North Dakota, however, said officials saw its Covid-19 numbers falling from a previous outbreak, and Gov. Doug Burgum said the mask’s term would expire Monday, reiterating at a news briefing “we must remain vigilant.” .
Capacity limits in North Dakota for bars, restaurants, and event venues will change from requirements to recommendations.
CNG’s Maggie Fox, Bianna Golodryga, Yon Pomrenze, Lauren del Valle, Melissa Alonso, Devon Sayers, Amanda Sealy, Kay Jones, Hollie Silverman and Rob Frehse contributed to the report.