COVID-19 instances are climbing as soon as once more throughout the District, however this time, many residents is not going to have entry to a booster shot. Underneath new federal tips, eligibility has been narrowed to seniors 65 and older, youngsters beneath 12, and other people with sure underlying well being circumstances. That leaves a large swath of in any other case wholesome adults unable to get vaccinated, at the same time as transmission will increase in neighborhoods, workplaces, and faculties.
This story examines the coverage shift and its penalties, and highlights how the narrowing of eligibility may weaken neighborhood safety. Docs and public well being consultants warn that excluding youthful, wholesome adults could improve the chance of lengthy COVID, gas the unfold of recent variants, and add stress on hospitals. Group members describe the frustration of being overlooked, voicing issues about equity, security, and what this implies for every day life within the metropolis.
The adjustments have sparked debate over who will get protected and whether or not public well being coverage is leaving too many residents behind.
SEE ALSO:
Preserving Native Voices: The Smithsonian Nationwide Museum Of The American Indian
After Trump’s Crime Order, Federal Brokers Nonetheless Goal Washington Residents