New York’s vaccination rate convinced Governor Andrew Cuomo to lift nearly all pandemic restrictions. 70% of adults in the state already received at least one dose of the COVID vaccine. In New York City, 60% of adults are fully vaccinated. And because of this, New York can say goodbye to social distance requirements, disinfection protocols, and capacity limits. It also means that restaurants, museums, and bars could reopen and not worry about contact tracing.
People who can show proof of vaccination in large events also don’t need to wear a face mask. However, if you haven’t been vaccinated yet, you will have to test negative and wear a face mask.
Governor Cuomo said that “Not only do we have the lowest COVID positivity rate in the United States of America, we have hit 70% vaccination ahead of schedule”. He added that “We’re no longer just surviving- we’re thriving”.
Lifting Pandemic Restrictions
New York joins other states including Vermont, Florida, Illinois, and California in lifting most of the pandemic restrictions.
California Governor Gavin Newsom called it “reopening day”. California lifted the pandemic restrictions as the state reached 72% of adults having at least one dose of the vaccine.
70% Vaccinated Americans by 4th of July?
A goal of President Biden’s administration is to get at least 70% of Americans vaccinated by July 4. Aside from the 70% mark, Biden’s administration also targets 160 million adults fully vaccinated. However, only 142 million adults have completed their vaccine according to the latest numbers. Some are expecting the US to fall short of its target.
However, even if they miss the 70% mark, Dr. Anthony Fauci said that the 4th of July won’t be the end of America’s vaccination program. He said that “If you don’t meet the precise goal and you fall short by a few percent, that doesn’t mean you stop in your effort to get people vaccinated”.
