NY COVID latest: Sunday, August 15, 2021
NEW YORK — Find the latest information on the COVID-19 pandemic in New York state and New York City, including data on positive cases and other indicators, and information from local officials.
Key to NYC Pass: What de Blasio’s vaccine mandate will look like
City officials are working on the final details of New York’s vaccine mandate, called Key to NYC Pass — though it’s not actually a vaccine passport as the name might imply. The city’s vaccine mandate plan is the first like it in the United States, Mayor Bill de Blasio said; it will require vaccinations for all workers and customers at indoor dining, indoor fitness and indoor entertainment venues.
COVID claims more young victims as deaths climb yet again
The COVID-19 death toll has started soaring again as the delta variant tears through the nation’s unvaccinated population and fills up hospitals with patients, many of whom are younger than during earlier phases of the pandemic.
Concerts, outdoor events still risky as delta variant surges, experts say
Concerts and outdoor events are returning, and many are requiring proof of vaccination as part of new safety protocols designed to help prevent the transmission of COVID-19. But while experts say being outdoors is less risky in general, they continue to recommend additional precautions for those visiting crowded outdoor venues.
Biden weighs stiffer vaccine rules as delta variant spreads rapidly across US
When the pace of vaccinations in the U.S. first began to slow, President Joe Biden backed incentives like million-dollar cash lotteries if that’s what it took to get shots in arms. But as new COVID infections soar, he’s testing a tougher approach.
Who doesn’t need the COVID-19 vaccine?
It has been eight months since the first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine were administered to health care workers nationwide. Since then, the vaccine has become available to anyone over the age of 12. Experts explain the few instances in which a person would not qualify for, or should delay getting vaccinated.
Essential workers monument to change location, remain in Battery Park City
A monument honoring essential workers’ efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic will change locations after residents in Battery Park City were unhappy with where it was originally going to be built.
Workers enjoy the upper hand as companies scramble to hire
With the economy growing rapidly as it reopens from the pandemic, many employers are increasingly desperate to hire. Yet evidence suggests that as a group, the unemployed aren’t feeling the same urgency to take jobs.
Vaccine freebies
New York, New Jersey and several companies nationwide are offering incentives for those who get vaccinated, including free food, drinks and discounts.
Latest official numbers
As of Saturday, there have been 2,184,282 confirmed cases of COVID-19 since March 2020 and 43,229 fatalities, according to data from the state.
COVID-19 timeline: How novel coronavirus spread
Tips to protect yourself and others amid coronavirus outbreaks
The New York state coronavirus hotline is 1-888-364-3065; information is also being posted here
