Morning Briefing
Summaries of health policy coverage from major news organizations
The Race Against Covid Variants And Yet Another Surge
Bloomberg: Vaccine Trickle Becomes Torrent As U.S. Eligibility Rules Widen
It’s taking some effort and some patience. But just as eligibility is opening to millions of people across the U.S. after months of cutthroat competition to find Covid-19 shots, vaccines are starting to stream into people’s arms. Becky Jacobsen, 41, was ready to drive as long as an hour for a shot as soon as Connecticut made all adults eligible on Thursday. A friend stayed up late to snatch an appointment at a CVS Health Corp. drugstore just 6 miles from Jacobsen’s home in Windsor. (LaVito, 4/1)
Axios: The Race Between COVID Vaccines And Emerging Variants
America is in a race to vaccinate people before the country is overwhelmed by variants that are spurring a fourth wave of COVID-19. Spring is here, and when cases were dropping, hope was rising for a more normal summer. But experts warn this will only happen if people keep social distancing, wearing masks and getting vaccinated as soon as they can. (Drage O'Reilly and Chase, 4/1)
Reuters: Pandemic Poised To Surge Again In California's Silicon Valley Tech Hub
A California community that has been a bellwether of the coronavirus pandemic’s rampage across the United States warned on Thursday that the number of cases of more contagious COVID-19 variants is increasing to worrisome levels. “The region’s progress in curbing the pandemic remains precarious,” the health department in Santa Clara County, home to California’s Silicon Valley, said. “County residents are therefore urged to avoid travel, quarantine if travelling, and consistently use face coverings.” (Bernstein, 4/2)
CBS News: COVID-19 Cases Spike In Michigan, Fueled By Infections Among Kids
As federal officials warn of a potential fourth wave of COVID-19 infections, Michigan has emerged as one of the most pressing hotspots, with average daily infections now five times what they were six weeks ago. New data from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services shows this dramatic surge is due in large part to cases spiking among children and teenagers. According to state data, since February 19, average daily new COVID-19 cases among children under 10 jumped 230%, more than any other age group. The second-highest increase in infections is in the 10 to 19 age group, which saw cases rise 227%. The trends in these groups exceed that of the state as a whole. (Bayer, 4/2)
