US changes tack to hasten vaccine rollout
Facing a slower-than-hoped coronavirus vaccine rollout, the administration of US President Donald Trump abruptly shifted gears on Tuesday to speed the delivery of shots to more people. The move came as cases and deaths surged to alarming new highs.
Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar announced a series of major changes to increase supply of vaccines, extend eligibility to more seniors and provide more locations for people to get shots. Administration officials describing the new policies conveyed a notable sense of urgency.
Late last week, President-elect Joe Biden had said that he would release nearly every available dose of the two vaccines being used after taking office.