Morning Briefing
Summaries of health policy coverage from major news organizations
Alarming Covid Spike In New Jersey; NYC Mayor Vows No Shutdowns
Teaneck Daily Voice: Original COVID-19 'Ground Zero' In NJ Approaches Virtual Lockdowns Again
An “alarming” spike in the number of new COVID-19 cases forced all township buildings closed to the public on Tuesday in Teaneck, which had been considered "ground zero" in New Jersey when the virus first exploded 21 months ago. “This action is just one measure that will be taken to help keep our community, workforce and families safe from the spread of the virus,” Township Manager Dean B. Kazinci said. (DeMarco, 12/21)
AP: De Blasio Says 'No More Shutdowns' As NYC Faces Virus Spike
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said he’s committed to keeping the city open as it grapples with a huge spike in coronavirus cases. The Democrat said Tuesday that New York can’t see schools and businesses close again like they did when COVID-19 first hit the city in 2020.De Blasio has faced questions over the past week about whether he would reinstate closures as the omicron variant surges in the city. (Price, 12/22)
Bloomberg: NYC Mayor-Elect Eric Adams Postpones Inauguration Ceremony
New York City Mayor-elect Eric Adams said in a statement that his inauguration ceremony will be postponed “in order to prioritize the health of all who were planning to attend, cover, and work on this major event.” “It is clear that our city is facing a formidable opponent in the Omicron variant of Covid-19, and that the spike in cases presents a serious risk to public health,” he said. (Sherman, 12/21)
The Wall Street Journal: Broadway Hits ‘Hamilton,’ ‘Lion King’ Among Shows To Halt As Covid-19 Cases Rise
Some of the most popular shows on Broadway, including “Hamilton” and “The Lion King,” have canceled performances through Christmas due to Covid-19 outbreaks within their companies. “Jagged Little Pill” said it would end its run altogether. The temporary closures come as the coronavirus pandemic resurges in New York City, with the Omicron variant fueling transmissions and higher test-positivity rates. (Calfas, 12/21)
