Florida bans ‘vaccine passports’, U.S. confirms more than 553,500 deaths: COVID-19 updates
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signs order banning ‘vaccine passports’
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis issued an executive order on Friday, coming to effect immediately. The order bans businesses from expecting customers to show proof they have been vaccinated against COVID-19 to get service.
The Republican governor had earlier announced his objective to issue an order prohibiting so-called “vaccine passports.” His action also blocked any government agency in Florida from issuing such documentation to provide proof of vaccinations.
In his executive order, DeSantis insists that “vaccination passports reduce individual freedom and will harm patient privacy.”
U.S vaccination drive updates
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention vaccine tracker, more than 30% of the U.S population has vaccinated against COVID-19, with more than 101.8 million Americans receiving at least one dose of the vaccine. More than 17% of the total population has been fully vaccinated, as have more than 53% of those 65 and older.
According to a company statement by Johnson & Johnson on Friday, in its ongoing clinical trial for COVID-19 vaccine, it has started vaccinating participants between 12 and 17 years old.
A Pfizer study found that its COVID-19 vaccine with German partner BioNTech is safe and effective for kids ages 12 to 15, the study proved. The company also declared initiating trials in children under 12 years old.
According to Johns Hopkins University data, the U.S. has over 30.5 million confirmed coronavirus cases and more than 553,500 deaths.
The Food and Drug Administration said on Thursday that Moderna can put 50% more vaccine dosage in each vial. Initially, the company began manufacturing 10 dose vials, but the FDA’s decision allows Moderna to put up 15 doses in each vial. This move will allow the company to speed up shipments and get more shots in arms.