New York City will require proof that COVID-19 has been administered to participate in indoor activities such as restaurants, gyms, and entertainment centers. Mayor Bill de Blasio announced this Tuesday, August 3.This makes NYC the first major U.S. metro to announce such an order, following similar orders in France and Italy last month according to The New York Times. The COVID-19 vaccination mandates in the U.S. are mainly limited to individuals, such as Google or Facebook, who order their employees to be vaccinated before they return to work.Broadway's owners last week announced that all people who go to theatres must be vaccinated. According to the New York Times, President Biden also announced mandatory vaccination mandates for federal employees (who would otherwise have to undergo mandatory masking and testing, and distancing according to the Associated Press ).Similar: Delta variant: All your questions answeredMany institutions and companies have followed the lead of the highly-transmissible Delta variant as it continues to spread across the U.S. However, cities have yet to issue broad vaccination mandates. NPR reports that some states such as Arkansas and Arizona have begun to ban mask mandates.In a news conference on Tuesday, de Blasio said New York City, in a "first-in-the-nation" mandate, will soon bar people who are unvaccinated from many indoor activities across the city, including indoor dining, indoor fitness and indoor entertainment and performances. The "Key to NYC" mandate, also known as the "Key to NYC Pass," will go into effect on Aug. 16, and will be enforced (including inspections of businesses) beginning on Sept. 13.De Blasio stated during the news conference, "If you are not vaccinated, unfortunately it will prevent you from participating in many activities." "It is time to recognize that vaccination is a necessary part of living a healthy, happy life.According to CNBC, New York City also has an incentive program that offers $100 to anyone who gets their vaccine from a city-run vaccination site. De Blasio stated that since July 30, approximately 11,000 people have received a dose and earned $100 each.De Blasio stated that the new mandate will "guarantee a higher level of vaccinations in this city, and that is key to protecting people as well as the key for our recovery." He said that this is what will turn the tide and send out a clear message. You must get vaccinated if you want to fully participate in society.He said that more than 160 million Americans are now vaccinated. The only reason for our recovery is vaccinations. It's now. This is going to clearly communicate that message."You will need to show your vaccination certificate or the NYC COVID safe app, de Blasio stated.De Blasio stated that approximately 5 million New Yorkers have received at least one dose COVID-19 vaccination.Original publication on Live Science
