Vaccine Mandates Are Spreading Alongside Dangerous Delta Variant

The Delta variant is more dangerous and contagious than many experts initially realized. In response to the uptick in cases and hospitalizations countrywide, some government leaders are implementing mask mandates.

President Biden announced on Thursday that federal government employees will be asked to attest to their vaccination status. White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator Jeff Zients explains what the new requirement will look like.

And NPR Correspondent Brian Naylor reports on how federal employees are feeling about this change.

In participating regions, you'll also hear a local news segment that will help you make sense of what's going on in your community.

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This episode was produced by Jonaki Mehta and Lee Hale. It was edited by Fatma Tanis with help from Joe Neel. Additional reporting from Allison Aubrey. Our executive producer is Cara Tallo.