WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden and a top health official are warning that too many Americans are declaring virus victory too quickly, and they’re appealing for mask requirements and other restrictions to be maintained or restored to stave off a “fourth surge” of COVID-19.
The head of the CDC says she has a feeling of “impending doom” if people ease off.
The double warnings came as Biden laid out hopeful new steps to expand vaccines against COVID-19, with all adults to become eligible in the next 5 weeks. Biden announced plans to expand the number of retail pharmacies administering vaccines.
But the optimism is tempered by stark warnings about the potential for another wave of cases.
Biden urged governors to reinstate mask mandates and other restrictions some states have been easing.
Hours earlier, during a virtual White House health briefing, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, grew emotional as she reflected on her experience treating COVID-19 patients who are alone at the end of their lives.
She said, “I’m going to lose the script, and I’m going to reflect on the recurring feeling I have of impending doom.”
Photo: President Joe Biden speaks during an event on COVID-19 vaccinations and the response to the pandemic, in the South Court Auditorium on the White House campus, Monday, March 29, 2021, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
