Dr. Anthony Fauci, during an appearance on CBS’ “Face the Nation,” outlined two main reasons as to why the United States is still seeing spikes in coronavirus cases.
As new variants of the virus make their way through the country, Fauci stresses that “it is not completely the variants” that are causing rises in case numbers. In fact, he says, it has more to do with relaxed safety protocols.
“What we’re likely seeing is because of spring break and pulling back on the mitigation methods you’ve seen now,” the infectious disease expert explained. He added that the relaxed protocols were “premature,” saying countries are “really in danger” of another surge in cases.
And with a peak in cases on the horizon, Fauci outlined the importance of those who are eligible to get vaccinated as soon as they are able. “That’s what we’re starting to see. And that’s why we really say it’s almost a race between getting people vaccinated and this peak.”
Over the past two weeks, the seven-day average of new coronavirus cases has increased by 11%, showing over 77,000 new confirmed cases on Friday alone. Hospitalizations and deaths remain at bay.
When President Joe Biden’s original goal of 100 million vaccinations delivered in his first 100 days was met in half the time, he upped his goal to 200 million.
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