A notice indicating the out-of-stock status of COVID-19 test kits is posted at the entrance of the American pharmacy chain CVS. [Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]
[Asia Economy New York=Correspondent Baek Jong-min] The number of new COVID-19 infections in the United States has exceeded 800,000 per day. As infections rapidly increase, some pharmacies that conduct COVID-19 testing and vaccinations are reducing their operating hours.
The New York Times (NYT) reported on the 13th (local time) that the 7-day average of daily new COVID-19 cases in the U.S. was 803,736. This is the first time the daily average has surpassed 800,000 cases.
Although the recent growth rate has slowed, the number has increased 2.33 times compared to two weeks ago.
The Washington Post (WP) reported a 7-day average of 794,202 new cases.
As the Omicron variant spreads rapidly, major U.S. pharmacy chains are temporarily closing some stores due to staffing issues. U.S. pharmacies used to operate 24/7 year-round, but with the increase in COVID-19 testing and vaccinations, they are facing labor shortages.
Walgreens told CNN, "Most stores are operating normally, but some stores have adjusted their hours or temporarily closed due to increased COVID-19 infections among staff."
CVS also announced that some stores will temporarily close on weekends to address severe staffing problems.
Previously, CityMD, which operates emergency medical centers in New York and New Jersey, suspended operations at many centers due to a surge in workload.
Meanwhile, a senior U.S. government official announced that starting from the 19th, a website will be launched where free COVID-19 self-test kits can be ordered.
Each household can apply for up to four kits. Delivery will take place 7 to 12 days after ordering.
U.S. President Joe Biden announced that, as it became difficult to get tested due to the surge in infections, he would purchase 500 million self-test kits and distribute them for free.
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