NYC Becomes First Major US City To Implement Covid-19 Vaccine Mandate

It seems like NYC could be paving the way for other countries around the world looking to resume social activities and life at large following a widespread vaccine rollout. For residents in the city, they will soon be required to provide proof of Covid-19 vaccination in order to enjoy indoor dining, gyms, and entertainment venues, as announced by Mayor Bill de Blasio. The mandate will take effect August 16, making New York City the first major city in the US to have a Covid-19 vaccination requirement like this, as Reuters reports. 

Speaking at a press conference de Blasio said, “Today I announced the new approach which we’re calling the Key to NYC Pass. The Key to New York City – when you hear those words, I want you to imagine the notion that, because someone is vaccinated, they can do all the amazing things that are available in this city.”

He added that NYC is a “miraculous place full of wonders and if you’re vaccinated all that is going to open up to you. you’ll have the key, you can open the door. But if you’re not vaccinated, unfortunately, you will not be able to participate in many things. That’s the point we’re trying to get across; it’s time for people to see vaccination as literally necessary to living a full and healthy life.”

Under the new mandate, customers and staff will be required to be vaccinated at indoor dining establishments, indoor gyms and fitness studios, and indoor entertainment venues and performances. De Blasio stressed that people don’t need to be fully vaccinated, but rather need to provide proof of “at least one dose.” While it might be a first for the city, it comes after many businesses and organisations have implemented their own vaccine mandates, including SoulCycle Equinox and the Broadway League. 

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Moreover, with NYC now following the move France made when authorities announced last month that residents would need to provide proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test to eat at a restaurant in the country, many are speculating whether this will be the “new normal” going forward in a post-Covid-19 world. As Australia grapples with it’s own Covid-19 outbreak with NSW struggling to contain the recent outbreak, already the government has announced that 70 per cent vaccination around the country and states will be required before those who are vaccinated can live some semblance of normality. They are yet to define just what this will look like or how lockdowns will be avoided for those who are vaccinated.

For more information on Australia’s goals to reach a 70 per cent vaccination rate, read our story below.  

What Happens When Australia Reaches the 70% Vaccination Rate?

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