The President of the United States (POTUS) stated the new goal being targeted by the American vaccination drive program in his address from the White House on Tuesday. President Joe Biden said the vaccination program is aiming to complete at least one shot of vaccination by 4th July (which also is American Independence Day) for 70% of the adult population of USA. In the press conference held on Tuesday, the POTUS said it is now time to make vaccination easier and convince more people about the benefits of getting the vaccine shot.
The plan outlined by the President of USA focussed on making vaccination process more convenient and to convince the hesitant population who are reluctant to take the vaccine. Currently around 100 million American adults have received the first shot of the vaccine. The aim is to vaccinate at least 160 million Americans by July 4th, which means the vaccination drive is aiming to vaccinate more than 50 million people in the next couple of months. The medical authorities are also on hold for the nod from the FDA to begin vaccination of 12-15 year olds. The FDA nod for the vaccines being safe for 12-15 year olds is expected to arrive as early as next week and the President has emphasised on his administration being ready to vaccinate this group of 12-15 year olds.
Data released by the White House indicates nearly 148 million Americans have registered and successfully received their first dose of the vaccine and nearly 33% or one-third of the population has been fully vaccinated. A survey revealed that one-fourth of the population does not have any intention to get vaccinated and President Biden said the focus will soon shift towards convincing and getting these reluctant citizens vaccinated.
A new helpline number was also announced by President Biden – 438829 – people can text their ZIP code and they will receive a reply with nearest vaccination sites. The POTUS also mentioned that almost all of the government’s 40,000 plus pharmacy centres will begin to support walk-in vaccinations without requiring prior appointment. He also added that there are plans to offer incentives such as grocery store discounts and tickets to sporting events for those who are willing to get vaccinated. At the conclusion of his speech at the White House the President made a plea to the American public to unite and help achieve the goals set out by the vaccination drive so that the threat from Covid-19 is minimalised.
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