New York City Restaurants and Gyms Require COVID-19 Vaccination to Enter

New York City authorities will require proof of vaccination for employees and clients of indoor events, including dining at restaurants, workouts at gyms and theater performances. This was announced on August 3 by the mayor of the city, Bill de Blasio, reports The Hill.

This policy is one of the first of its kind in the United States. It is being held against the backdrop of a nationwide surge in coronavirus infection. The surge is largely due to the spread of the delta strain among unvaccinated people.

The Mayor said the Key to NYC Pass program will begin on August 16, with a full rollout on September 13.

“It's time to realize that vaccinations are literally essential for a good, fulfilling and healthy life,” says de Blasio. "If you are not vaccinated, unfortunately you will not be able to participate in many activities."

New York City's own app

This metropolis is the first US city to introduce a municipal vaccination passport. The state has developed its own Excelsior Pass mobile app, which debuted in March. Private businesses, including sports arenas and concert halls that require proof of vaccination, can use this app.

The mayor said there will be several ways to show proof of vaccination: a paper card, a card in the Excelsior Pass app, as well as NYC's own city Covid Safe app, which was unveiled on August 2.

On the subject: The unvaccinated are not allowed here: places in New York, where entry is allowed only after a full vaccination

While other major cities, notably Washington DC, San Francisco and Los Angeles, have recently reintroduced the requirement to wear masks, de Blasio decided to drop them. He insists that city officials focus on vaccinations.

Vaccination support

“Our strategy is focused on vaccines. All we do is support vaccinations. Anything less than vaccinations will not get us where we need to go, ”explained de Blasio. - We want to ensure that people get vaccinated. And at the same time, show that your life will be much better after being vaccinated. "

De Blasio is trying to increase the vaccination rate in the city. And the Key to NYC Pass program is by far his most aggressive move. About 66% of the city's adult population is fully vaccinated, but rates vary in different parts of the city.

Mayor last week offered a reward of $ 100 to townspeoplewho sign up for vaccinations at city vaccination points.