US President Joe Biden has pledged to make all adults in the United States vaccine-eligible by 1st May. This target, he said, is to ensure Americans “begin to mark our independence from this virus” by July 4, America’s Independence Day.
Speaking in the White House East Room, President Biden also announced moves to speed vaccinations, including lifting eligibility qualifications. The President said he is deploying an additional 4,000 active-duty troops to support vaccination efforts. And will allow more people including medical students, veterinarians and dentists to deliver shots.
He is also directing more doses toward some 950 community health centres. And up to 20,000 retail pharmacies, to make it easier for people to get vaccinated closer to their homes.
Biden said his aim is to be able to allow Americans gather at least in small groups for 4th July. He said, “After this long hard year, that will make this Independence Day something truly special.”
The President also offered sympathy and empathy to Americans that have lost “something” during the pandemic. Biden revealed that he carries a piece of paper with the number of Americans who have died of Covid-19. And mentioned the pain of losing his son, Beau Biden.
“We all lost something. I know it’s been hard. I truly know. Finding light in the darkness is a very American thing to do – in fact, it may be the most American thing to do.”
100 million vaccines on 60th day in office may
Before taking office, President Biden promised to administer 100 million vaccines in his first 100 days as President.
In his speech, he announced that “We’re actually on track to reach this goal of 100 million shots on my 60th day in office.” The President noted that the US will likely surpass his initial goal within his first 100 days in office.
“As more and more adults, including teachers and public transportation employees, are vaccinated, we can accelerate the massive nationwide effort to reopen our schools safely within the next 50 days. I will not relent until we beat this virus.”
President Biden also urged continued mask-wearing, social distancing and good hygiene. He discouraged cities and states from loosening their guidelines on large gatherings even as more localities relax restrictions.
He called the actions of the officials who are overeager to reopen fully before everyone is vaccinated “Neanderthal thinking”.
“I need you, the American people… I need every American to do their part. If we don’t stay vigilant, and conditions change, we may have to reinstate restrictions to get back on track. But please, we don’t want to have to do that again.”
Prior to the speech, President Biden signed the approved $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill at the White House.
“This historic legislation is about rebuilding the backbone of this country,” the President said in the Oval Office before signing the bill.
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