Covid-19 in the USA: federal agency chief warns of 'impending catastrophe' with increasing cases
The head of the US public health agency, Rochelle Walensky, says she is 'scared'
A senior US government scientist warned that the United States is facing an "impending catastrophe" with the increase in coronavirus cases and hospital admissions across the country.
The director of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. public health agency, spoke about her fears at a meeting at the White House.
"I will reflect on the recurring feeling I have of impending catastrophe," said Rochelle Walensky. "We have so many reasons to hope, but now I’m scared."
New cases of covid-19 reached about 60,000 a day last week, an increase of approximately 7%, according to the CDC.
He also promised that by mid-April, 90% of American adults will be able to receive the vaccine.
Walensky said he did not want the United States to face another spike in cases and deaths, as has happened in many European countries.
Cases have increased particularly rapidly in Michigan and the northeast of the country, including Connecticut and New York, according to the New York Times.
Speaking in a speech on the White House TV, President Biden called on state governors to reintroduce laws that require citizens to wear masks.
US coronavirus rules vary from state to state, with some governors imposing much stricter restrictions than others.
"If we let our guard down now, we can see the virus getting worse, not getting better," said Biden.
He also said that the US national vaccination program is ahead of schedule.
Biden promised that as of April 19, 90% of American adults will be able to receive a dose of the vaccine and will have access to a vaccination center less than ten kilometers from their homes.
Biden said that all American adults will be able to apply for a dose by May 1.
One in five adults was vaccinated with all doses, according to the CDC. This includes almost all Americans over 65.
The rules on who is eligible vary in each state, but in most places priority is given to health professionals and those over 65. In some states, including Georgia and Arizona, those over 16 can now receive an injection, according to the New York Times.
Biden urged Americans, however, to adhere to the guidelines on social detachment and wearing masks.
"Fight to the end," he said. "Don't give up now."
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