The COVID-19 Timeline (August 2021 - Present)

Since the beginning of the pandemic, I have tracked daily COVID-19 related news headlines to reflect on how this seemingly never-ending situation has progressed. This timeline does not capture everything that has happened, and the reader should keep in mind this list was mostly updated daily as events occurred, not retroactively. Either way, here is a look at the COVID-19 timeline from August 1st, 2021 through the present.

August 1st, 2021: The Lazio Region of Italys website was hacked, stopping residents from signing up online for a vaccine appointment. The CDC Moratorium on evictions ends. According to the Florida Hospital Association, the state of Florida broke a state pandemic record for hospitalizations, with 10,207 residents in care, higher than the previous July 23, 2020 record of 10,170. August 2nd, 2021: Mayor de Blasio of NYC strongly recommends, but does not require, face masks to be work inside in the city. Seven Bay Area Counties in California to require masks to be worn inside in public settings in response to the upswing in COVID-19 cases. 70% of all US adults have received at least on dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. US Senator Lindsey Graham tests positive for COVID-19, despite being vaccinated. Democrat Governor John Edward's announces a new mask mandate for all Louisiana residents ages 5 and up. The United States surpasses 35 million known COVID-19 cases since the virus started.

August 3rd, 2021: Tyson Foods announces all US employees must be vaccinated. NYC announces there must be proof of vaccination to enter restaurants, gyms, and some other indoor space. The CDC issues a new eviction moratorium for counties with substantial levels of COVID-19 transmission which will expire in October. August 4th, 2021: The Delta Variant now accounts for 93% of all new COVID-19 cases in the USA. The World Health Organziation calls for a delay on any booster shot as hundreds of millions still haven't received any dose. The entire 11 million person population of Wuhan, China is to be tested for COVID-19 after 7 reports of locally transmitted cases. The world surpassed 200 million known cases of COVID-19. Arkansas Governor Hutchinson says he regrets banning mask mandates for schools, and requests the state to overturn his law. August 5th, 2021: Moderna announces their vaccine is 93% effective after 6 months. August 6th, 2021: United Airlines to require COVID-19 vaccination for all employers, the first major airline to do so. Unemployment drops to 5.4% as employers added 943,000 jobs in the USA. Amazon will require all warehouse employees to wear a mask beginning Monday to help curb the Delta Variant. Half of the entire US population is fully vaccinated against COVID-19. August 7th, 2021: Florida hits another record for COVID-19 hospitalizations with 13,747 and 2,753 of them are in intensive care, taking up 43% of all intensive care beds in the entire state. August 8th, 2021: At 76% of their entire population partially vaccinated and 68% fully vaccinated, Vermont leads all states in vaccinations. At least 4.4 Billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered worldwide. A federal judge rules that Norweigen Cruise Lines can require proof of vaccination, overriding Florida law. August 9th, 2021: The Lambda Variant, originating in Peru in November 2020, has appeared in at least 44 US states, with at least 1,300 cases, causing concern as the Variant appears to be more resistant to vaccines than other variants. A Missouri taxi company bans any customer who is vaccinated or wears a mask from using their taxis. The US Defense Secretary is going to mandate a COVID-19 vaccine for all US Military members with a deadline of September 15th. A new study by CNN found that 99.99% of all fully vaccinated persons who had breakthrough cases were not hospitalized or died. August 10th, 2021: US Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene is suspended from Twitter for one week for pushing what Twitter labeled as "misleading" for her saying that vaccines are "failing". August 11th, 2021: California announces all school staff must be vaccinated against COVID-19 or face regular testing. The CDC strengthens their recommendation that pregnant women get vaccinated against COVID-19, citing no increased risk of miscarriage, amongst other things. August 12th, 2021: The US Supreme Court decides that Indiana University can require students to be vaccinated against COVID-19. The FDA authorizes third doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for some people with weakened immune systems. August 13th, 2021: Four unvaccinated Broward County, Florida school employees have died within 2 days from COVID-19 which was contracted during their summer break, according to their union. Mississippi health officials announce their entire state hospital system is on the brink of collapse in 5 to 10 days if the trends continue with COVID-19 hospitalizations. 918,000 Americans got vaccinated today, a new high since early July, as more residents sign up. August 14th, 2021: US Customs and Border Protection Agents in Tennessee have seized at least 3,017 fake COVID-19 vaccination cards from being circulated. US Health Officials plan to begin offering third doses of COVID-19 shots in the Fall to immunocompromised persons. August 15th, 2021: Francis Collins, the Director of the National Institutes of Health, expresses concern over pediatric cases of COVID-19, noting that over 400 children have already died from the virus and there currently being almost 2,000 children hospitalized with the virus in the United States. August 16th, 2021: The Atlanta Falcons become the first NFL team with a 100% vaccination rate amongst players. The Biden Administration is expected to announce that most Americans should get a booster shot eight months post first-dose. August 17th, 2021: New Zealand goes under a 3 day national lockdown due to one new COVID case in Auckland. There are currently two ICU beds open in the entire State of Alabama. Texas Governor Greg Abbott. who is vaccinated, tests positive for COVID-19. The TSA extends the Federal Mask Mandate which was set to expire after labor day, through January 18th, 2022. August 18th, 2021: The USA announces vaccine boosters will be offered beginning in September. President Biden announces all nursing home staff must be vaccinated or the homes will lose all Medicare and Medicaid funding. Alabama has more ICU patients than ICU beds. August 19th, 2021: Three US Senators, Sen. Hickenlooper, Sen. King, and Sen. Wicker, who are all vaccinated, test positive for COVID-19. The USA administers 1 Million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine in 24 hours, a 7 week high. The Texas Supreme Court overruled the governors mask mandate ban, allowing local school districts to enforce mask wearing in schools. August 20th, 2021: Federal investigators announce they are looking into a higher risk of heart inflammation in young adults from the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.

August 21st, 2021: Puerto Rico announces all businesses must require proof of vaccination to enter. Rev. Jesse Jackson and his wife are both hospitalized with COVID-19.

August 22nd, 2021: The University of Oxford releases a new study that found the Pfizer vaccine wanes in effectiveness in around 5 months, and that vaccinated persons carry the Delta Variant in the same capacity as unvaccinated persons. Leon County, Florida becomes to 7th school district in Florida to go against Governor DeSantis and require masks for all k-8 students.

August 23rd, 2021: The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine receives full FDA approval for all persons 16 and older, becoming the first fully approved COVID-19 vaccine in the United States. NYC announces all school staff must be vaccinated against COVID-19, with first doses by September 27th. The Pentagon announces all military members must be vaccinated against COVID-19.

August 24th, 2021: Massachusetts School officials vote to implement a mask mandate for all k-12 staff and students for the entire state through October 1st. Orange County Public Schools becomes the 9th school district in the state of Florida to mandate masks in schools for all students, with a medical opt-out option from a doctor. Mass General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Georgia Tech, and BMC put out a new study showing that with reduced capacity, mask wearing, and outdoor settings, attending a pro football game does not increase your risk of contracting COVID-19.

August 25th, 2021: Johnson & Johnson announces that a second shot of their COVID-19 vaccine was found to generate a strong immune response, justifying a booster shot after 8 months. The US Treasury announces that out of the $46.6 Billion in assistance funded for American renters and landlords, only $4.7 billion has been distributed, with NYC alone having distributed only $200 Million out of the $2 Billion it received, with more than 100,000 requests backlogged. Delta Airlines announces all unvaccinated employees must pay a $200 monthly Healthcare surcharge.

August 26th, 2021: The Capital Region Medical Center in Tallahassee, Florida fired a doctor for selling medical exemption notes to parents to get their kids out of local school mask mandates under a company he created on July 26th. The Supreme Court blocks the Biden Administration from enforcing an eviction moratorium, ending the emergency housing measure to help tenants during the pandemic. US COVID-19 hospitalizations surpass 100,000 for the first time since January 2021.

August 27th, 2021: Governor DeSantis of Florida's mask mandate ban was overruled by a judge in a Florida court, allowing any school district to enforce mask wearing amongst kids.

August 28th, 2021: With over 80% of their Adult population fully vaccinated, Denmark announces all COVID-19 restrictions will be dropped beginning September 10th. In the month of August, at least 34 people were poisoned with Ivermectin, an animal de-worming drug, in the State of Florida, according to Florida Poison Control due to the false claims that the drug can treat COVID-19. 14 potable morgues are on their way to Central Florida to relieve hospitals from the lack of storage for bodies from COVID-19 deaths.

August 29th, 2021: At least 637,066 Americans have died from COVID-19. European leaders signal the possibility they will halt non-essential travel to the EU from the United States due to COVID-19 cases rising.

August 30th, 2021: AstraZeneca announces that all US employees must be vaccinated against COVID-19. New Zealand announces a citizen died from Myocarditis, a disease likely caused from the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. The European Union officially bans non-essential travel from the USA due to the countries rising COVID-19 cases and vaccination rates. The US Education Department announces it is looking into civil rights violations for disabled children in five states that banned mask mandates including Iowa, Utah, South Carolina, Oklahoma, and Tennessee.

August 31st, 2021: A new Axios-Ipsos poll found that the percentage of Americans who stand in strong opposition to getting vaccinated was at its lowest point ever with 14% of US adults. Italy announces all incoming Americans regardless of vaccination status must be tested for COVID-19 within three days of arriving in Italy, with unvaccinated persons needing to quarantine for 5 days and being tested again, with the policy set to last until October 25th.

September 1st, 2021: The CDC recommends unvaccinated persons should not travel for Labor Day weekend. The WHO designates the "Mu" COVID-19 strain, originating in Colombia. as a variant of interest. Joe Rogan, an immensely popular Podcaster, announces he tested positive for COVID-19. The Boston Red Sox baseball team announces game attendees must wear masks in indoor areas of the ballpark.

September 2nd, 2021: North Korea rejects an offer of 2.97 million COVID-19 vaccine doses, saying that the doses should go to "severely affected countries". The Tampa Bay Buccaneers football team announces their entire team and staff are vaccinated.

September 3rd, 2021: Hawaii, Massachusetts, and Vermont leads adult vaccination rates in the USA with 87.9%, 87.2%, and 87.1% of their respective adult populations at least partially vaccinated. The jobless rate fell to 5.2% after 235,000 new jobs were added to payrolls in August.

September 4th, 2021: New COVID-19 cases in Great Britain during the current week ending have increased 2.4% over the previous week.

September 5th, 2021: A 116 year old woman in Turkey fully recovered from COVID-19, making her the second oldest person in the world to recover from the disease.

September 6th, 2021: 648,264 Americans have died from COVID-19, and worldwide, 4,567,164 people have died from COVID-19.

September 7th, 2021: There was a 300% uptick in new COVID-19 cases between Labor Day 2021 and Labor Day 2020. The United States hits 40 Million total COVID-19 cases since January 2020.

September 8th, 2021: At least 13 staff members of Miami-Dade Public Schools have died of COVID-19 since August 16th, who were all unvaccinated, including 7 bus drivers and 3 teachers. According to national data, children in the USA now make up 26.8% of all new weekly COVID-19 cases. Second Circuit Judge John Cooper rules against DeSantis, allowing schools in Florida to continue to enforce mask mandates.

September 9th, 2021: Florida is averaging at least 344 COVID-19 deaths a day over the previous week, higher than any other US State. Jobless claims fall to 310,000, a USA pandemic low. President Biden will require all federal workers to be vaccinated, along with millions of government contractors. The Biden Administration announces all US businesses with 100 employees or more will be required by the Labor Department to ensure all employees are vaccinated or face weekly testing. Los Angeles County Public Schools announces all students 12 and older must be vaccinated.

September 10th, 2021: A new CDC study finds that unvaccinated Americans have an 11 times greater risk of dieing from COVID-19 than vaccinated Americans. A Florida appeals court overturns the anti-mask mandate precious ruling, allowing the State of Florida to re-enforce punishments to school districts that require kids to wear masks.

September 11th, 2021: The country of Turkey experiences mass protests by citizens angered over COVID-19 protocols.

September 12th, 2021: England announces a reversal on vaccine passports becoming mandatory.

September 13th, 2021: The Atlanta Zoo is treating 13 Gorillas who tested positive for COVID-19. The UK Office for National Statistics reports that through the first 7 months of 2021, only 1.2% of all COVID-19 deaths were from individuals that were vaccinated. Governor DeSantis of Florida announces that the state will begin fining any city or county $5,000 for mandating employees must be vaccinated. The State of Massachusetts activates up to 250 National Guardsmen to help drive school busses in school districts facing bus staff shortages due to COVID-19, with the costs of implementation to be reimbursed by the federal government.

September 14th, 2021: At least 5.76 Billion COVID-19 vaccines have been administered worldwide, with Malta, Portugal, and The U.A.E. being the only countries on earth to have fully vaccinated at least 80% of their populations.

September 15th, 2021: Six unvaccinated members of the same family in Florida died within three weeks of eachother from COVID-19. At least 664,231 people have died from COVID-19 in the United States, meaning 1 out of every 500 persons in the country have died from COVID-19. September 16th, 2021: After a claim by singer Nicki Minaj that a relative of hers in Trinidad and Tobago experienced adverse vaccine-related issues in his testicles, which in part made her hesitant to get the vaccine herself, was confirmed by the small country to be false. and they announced they never received any complaint if that nature. September 17th, 2021: The latest vaccination rates show that Hawaii, Massachusetts, and Vermont lead the nation in getting their adult populations partially vaccinated at 89.7%, 88.3%, and 87.9% respectively. However, Connecticut leads the country in adult fully vaccinated rates, at 78.9%. An FDA Panel rejects Pfizers request for a booster shot to be given to persons 16 years of age or older and at least six months following the second dose by a vote of 16 to 2.

September 18th, 2021: A new study by the Sun Yat-Sen University School in China suggests that children under the age of nine may have had worsened eyesight during the pandemic. The State of Alabama announces that new data showed that in 2020, the state experienced more deaths than births for the first time in recorded history.

September 19th, 2021: At least 4,686,685 people around the world have died from COVID-19.

September 20th, 2021: Pfizer announces their COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective in children aged 5 to 11. US Officials announce that they will suspend travel bans from other countries, including China, the UK, and the EU and instead require proof of vaccination for entry into the US, beginning in November. The Presidents of all 15 Community Colleges in Massachusetts announce that all students must be vaccinated by January. With more than 675,000 Americans dead from COVID-19, the USA has surpassed total deaths from the 1918 Spanish Flu Pandemic.

September 21st, 2021: Johnson & Johnson announces that a booster shot to their COVID-19 vaccine is 94% effective.

September 22nd, 2021: The USA announces they will purchase an additional 500 million doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to distribute to lower income countries in 2022. The Boston TD Garden sports arena announces that beginning September 30th, all fans attending a Celtics or Bruins game must be fully vaccinated or show a negative test if they are older than 12. The FDA approves a Pfizer COVID-19 booster shot for Americans over the age of 65 or at high risk. The Mormon Church issued a directive that all church goers should wear masks at all times within any Mormon Church. Floridas new surgeon General announces that any child exposed to COVID-19 in a Florida School will no longer need to quarantine unless they experience symptoms.

September 23rd, 2021: Hawaii becomes the first state to partially vaccinate at least 90% of their entire adult population. Alachua County Public Schools in Florida announce that under a Project Safe Grant Program, the county received $148,000 in federal funding to make up for the funds withheld by the state of Florida, including two months of salaries for four school board members, for the county enforcing mask mandates in public schools.

September 24th, 2021: At least 684,488 Americans have died from COVID-19.

September 25th, 2021: Hundreds of protestors marched against a "Corona Pass" in the Netherlands which would be needed to access bars, restaurants, and more in the country.

September 26th, 2021: A Idaho Coroner says that the state is running out of body storage space.

September 27th, 2021: NYC COVID-19 protocols force Brooklyn Nets star Kyrie Irving to miss an in-person media event, and will need to conduct interviews over Zoom. President Biden receives a booster shot. NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar says the NBA should remove any unvaccinated player from their team. A federal appeals panel ruled that a NYC vaccine mandate for nearly all adults working in the cities public schools can proceed.

September 28th, 2021: Pfizer announces they expect to request emergency use authorization for kids aged 5 to 11 in the coming weeks.

September 29th, 2021: The CDC issues a "urgent health advisory" for pregnant women to get vaccinated against COVID-19. YouTube announces all vaccine misinformation will be permanently deleted from its platform.

September 30th, 2021: At least 695,232 Americans have died from COVID-19.

October 1st, 2021: Merck announces they will seek FDA authorization for an anti-viral pill that studies showed cut the risk of hospitalization from COVID-19 in half. Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh tests positive for COVID-19. Reuters reports that the United States officially passed 700,000 COVID-19 deaths. California announces that all students will be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 for the next fall.

October 2nd, 2021: A new CDC report says that a booster shot gives similar side effects as second doses.

October 3rd, 2021: 46.7% of the entire world population has received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

October 4th, 2021: The CDC issues new guidance for spending the holidays with other people, saying that if groups gather indoors for a holiday that it's best to maintain good air circulation and have windows open and fans running.

October 5th, 2021: Johnson & Johnson officially requests emergency use authorization for a booster shot for their COVID-19 vaccine. NBA star Kyrie Irving misses practice with the Brooklyn Nets due to NYC rules regarding employees be vaccinated.

October 6th, 2021: A Colorado hospital system announces that in all transplant situations the recipient and donor must be vaccinated. Los Angeles will begin enquiring proof of vaccination to enter many indoor businesses beginning November 4th. In NYC, a group of protestors demonstrating against COVID-19 vaccines tore down a COVID-19 testing site.

October 7th, 2021: Pfizer formally asks the FDA to authorize its COVID-19 vaccine for ages 5 to 11.

October 8th, 2021: The unemployment rate in the USA falls to 4.8%, with the economy adding 194,000 jobs in the previous month as it recovers from COVID-19 against the Delta Variant threat.

October 9th, 2021: The Chicago Mayor announces there will be an opt-out option for city employees to not get vaccinated until December 31st, 2021, and instead have regular testing until then.

October 10th, 2021: Dr. Fauci says children will be able to safely enjoy Halloween this year despite the ongoing pandemic.

October 11th, 2021: Merck formally asks the FDA for approval for their oral antiviral pill for COVID-19. Texas Governor Greg Abbot issues an executive order banning vaccine mandates in the state of Texas by public and private entities.

October 12th, 2021: The IMF cuts their prediction for US economic growth as supply chains slow down around the world due to the pandemic resurgence in areas. The Brooklyn Nets GM announces that star player Kyrie Irving will not be allowed to play or participate with the team until he is able to fully participate in team activities due to the local guidelines in NY regarding vaccination status.

October 13th, 2021: The USA announces that land borders with Canada and Mexico will be re-opened to vaccinated persons in November 2021, ending a 19 month ban.

October 14th, 2021: Jobless claims in the USA fell to 293,000 in the previous week, dropping below 300,000 for the first time since the Pandemic began. South Korea announces they are donating 1.2 Million doses of the Astrazeneca COVID-19 vaccine to Vietnam and Thailand. A new WHO study found that only 1 out of every 7 COVID-19 cases occurring in Africa are detected. An FDA Panel endorses a half-dose booster Moderna COVID-19 vaccine shot for certain Americans. Alaskan Republican State Senator Lora Reinbold, who was banned from flying on Alaska Airlines because of her refusal to wear a mask, tests positive for COVID-19.

October 15th, 2021: Italy announces all workers in the country must be vaccinated or take frequent COVID-19 tests, with workers that refuse to go on unpaid leave.

October 16th, 2021: Russia daily COVID-19 deaths passes 1,000 for the first time. Convicted murderer Robert Durst, who just received a life sentence, contracts COVID-19 and is put on a ventilator.

October 17th, 2021: ESPN college football reporter Allison Williams resigns due to the company mandate to get vaccinated, and a request for accommodation while she was attempting to get pregnant was denied.

October 18th, 2021: Colin Powell, the former Secretary of State, has died from COVID-19 complications. National Hockey League player Evander Kane of the San Jose Sharks gets fined $1.7 Million and served a 21 game suspension for submitting a fake COVID-19 vaccination card. Washington State University College Football Head Coach Nick Rolovich is let go by the school after he refused to get vaccinated which was a requirement of all state employees.

October 19th, 2021: Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas tests positive for COVID-19. Pfizer releases new data showing that their vaccine is 93% effective against hospitalization in 12 to 18 year olds.

October 20th, 2021: New York City announces that all public employees must be vaccinated, eliminating a weekly test option. The FDA authorizes a Moderna and Johnson & Johnson booster shot and also state that you can mix which booster shot you receive regardless of your initial dose brand.

October 21st, 2021: India crosses a vaccination milestone with 1 Billion doses administered across the nation. Pfizer announces their booster shot was 95.6% effective in a study during the Delta Variant outbreak. The CDC Director endorses the recommendation of booster shots being mix and matched.

October 22nd, 2021: Pfizer announces their COVID-19 vaccine is 90.7% effective against symptoms in 5 to 11 year olds.

October 23rd, 2021: The nation of Namibia announces a suspension of the administration of the Russian Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine due to safety concerns about its impacts to individuals with HIV.

October 24th, 2021: Celebrity Singer Ed Sheeran tests positive for COVID-19.

October 25th, 2021: Moderna announces they are "encouraged" by their COVID-19 vaccine trial results for 6 to 11 year olds. The State of Ohio releases data showing that in 2020, deaths outnumbered births for the first time in recorded history.

October 26th, 2021: Tyson Foods, who were one of the first companies to mandate vaccination, announces 96% of their work force of 120,000 got vaccinated. Massachusetts extends the mask mandate for k-12 until at least January 2022. US Health advisors officially back the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 5 to 11.

October 27th, 2021: Merck announces a partnership with developing countries through the Medicines Patent Pool to broaden access to their promising anti-viral pill that reduces risk of hospitalization from COVID-19 in half.

October 28th, 2021: A new survey released by the Kaiser Family Foundation says only 27% of parents plan to vaccinate their 5 to 11 year olds against COVID-19.

October 29th, 2021: A new study published in the Lancet Infectious Diseases Journal found that individuals vaccinated against COVID-19 can spread the Delta Variant of the disease just as easily to other members of their home as an unvaccinated person would. The FDA signs off on the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 5 to 11 year olds, and once the CDC signs off, kids will be eligible to receive shots immediately. The nation of Tonga records its first case of COVID-19.

October 30th, 2021: Vice President Kamala Harris receives a COVID-19 booster shot.

October 31st, 2021: White House Press Secretary Jenn Psaki tests positive for COVID-19.

November 1st, 2021: At least 5 Million people worldwide have officially died from COVID-19, although the real number is likely higher.

November 2nd, 2021: The CDC releases a new study showing that immunity from COVID-19 lasts 6 months whether you are vaccinated or unvaccinated. A CDC panel officially recommends the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 5 to 11 year olds, with first doses beginning likely this week.

November 3rd, 2021: NFL superstar Aaron Rodgers tests positive for COVID-19, and will sit for his game coming on Sunday.

November 4th, 2021: The UK approves Mercks anti-viral pill Molnupiravir for use. The Biden Administration announces that the rule for employers with 100 or more employees have all employees get vaccinated or face weekly testing will take effect January 4th, 2022. The United States surpasses 750,000 COVID-19 deaths.

November 5th, 2021: Pfizer announces their COVID-19 pill is 89% effective against hospitalization and death in a new study and is seeking emergency use authorization from the FDA. New data shows employers added 531,000 jobs in October 2021, a sign of the economy picking up speed as the Delta Variant subsides. Puerto Rico announces all Children 5 years and older will be required to be vaccinated in order to go to school. NFL Star Aaron Rodgers admits he was not vaccinated against COVID-19. The Denver Zoo announces that two Hyenas tested positive for COVID-19 and are experiencing mild symptoms.

November 6th, 2021: A Federal appeals court in Louisiana temporarily blocks the Biden Administrations vaccine and testing mandate for large employers.

November 7th, 2021: The Australian State of New South Wales hits an inoculation rate of almost 90%, and as a result are loosening COVID-19 restrictions beginning the next day. For the first time in 15 months, Japan records Zero COVID-19 deaths in a day.

November 8th, 2021: The world surpasses 250 million documented cases of COVID-19. Germany experiences its highest COVID-19 infection rate ever, with 201.1 infections per 100,000 residents over the last week. The United States opens its borders to any international traveler as long as they are vaccinated and have proof of a negative COVID-19 test within three days of their travel.

November 9th, 2021: A federal judge rules that United Airlines can require vaccination against COVID-19 for all employees. President Macron of France announces residents over the age of 65 will need a booster shot to stay up to date on their vaccine passport, which is needed to gain access to restaurants, gyms, and more. The WHO issues a warning that there may be a vaccine syringe shortage in 2022.

November 10th, 2021: The United States Surgeon General issues a public rebuke of actor Matthew McConaughey and says that COVID-19 is "not harmless" to kids after the actor said he would not vaccinate his own kids. A Federal Judge overruled Texas Governor Greg Abbotts ban on mask mandates in public schools. allowing districts to decide individually on whether or not to have mask mandates.

November 11th, 2021: The Biden Administration announces a deal with Johnson & Johnson and COVAX, a worldwide vaccination program, to distribute the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine to conflict zones around the world.

November 12th, 2021: At least 759,310 people have died from COVID-19 in the United States. At least 52.8% of the entire world population has received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, equating to 4.05 Billion people. The Labor Department releases data that shows in September 2021, 4.4 million Americans quit their jobs voluntarily, which further shows the "great resignation" is in full swing, likely due to the pandemic making workers re-evaluate their life and job.

November 13th, 2021: At least three German state health ministers have urged the incoming parties negotiating a new government to prolong a state of emergency as new cases of COVID-19 surge in Germany.

November 14th, 2021: The Austrian government begins a nationwide lockdown of unvaccinated residents to help with rising death concerns and overwhelmed hospital staff.

November 15th, 2021: The Ngati Toa tribe, a Maori tribe in New Zealand, requests anti-vaccine protestors in New Zealand to stop using their ceremonial dance known as Ka Mate Haka as the tribe does not support the protestors position.

November 16th, 2021: Pfizer announces they will allow their anti-viral COVID-19 pill to be manufactured and sold in 95 poorer nations, similar to a deal by Merck. The United Kingdom announces residents in their 40s will now be eligible for a booster shot, in hopes to help mitigate any winter surge in cases. Pfizer requests emergency use authorization for their anti-viral COVID-19 pill.

November 17th, 2021: At least 2.6 Million American children aged 5 to 11 years old have received their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine after 10 days of that age group being eligible. OSHA announces a suspension to the upcoming mandate for large employers to have employees be vaccinated or tested regularly due to a court order placing a stay on the plan.

November 18th, 2021: A new report claims the first known COVID-19 patient was a vendor from the Wuhan Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market.

November 19th, 2021: Austria announces a nationwide lockdown to begin in 3 days on Monday, and will impose a nationwide COVID-19 vaccine mandate, becoming the first European nation to do so. The FDA authorizes the Moderna and Pfizer booster shots for all persons 18 and older regardless of original vaccine series received. The CDC endorses booster shots for all American adults.

November 20th, 2021: Disney World announces a pause in its vaccine mandate due to legislation signed by Governor DeSantis that bans large employers from mandating all employees become vaccinated against COVID-19.

November 21st, 2021: At least 5,143,783 people have died officially due to COVID-19 worldwide.

November 22nd, 2021: The German Health Minister warns that by the end of the winter, "just about everyone in Germany will probably be either vaccinated, recovered, or dead"

November 23rd, 2021: The CDC and State Department issue warnings to American Travelers who are going to Germany or Denmark amid rising COVID-19 infections.

November 24th, 2021: The WHO announces that they project at least 700,000 more Europeans and parts of Asia will die of COVID-19 by March 2022. New Zealand announces a 5 month extension of their border closure, and fully vaccinated travelers will be able to visit the country starting in April 2022, but will need to quarantine for 7 days upon arrival.

November 25th, 2021: South African scientists announces a new variant of concern called B.1.1529, which likely developed in an immunocompromised person,, and that there have been at least 100 confirmed cases of the new variant which will receive a Greek letter soon. The TSA announces over 2.3 million people went through airports the day before Thanksgiving, setting a record since the pandemic began.

November 26th, 2021: The Hong Kong Government announces the detection of two cases of the worrisome variant identified in South Africa. Great Britian, France, Isreal, Italy, and Singapore announce a ban on travel from South Africa and neighboring. countries in response to the new variant announcement. The WHO names the new South African strain "Omicron" and labels it a variant of concern with risk of reinfection. The German Company BioNTech, which worked with Pfizer on their COVID-19 vaccine, announces they will know within two weeks as to whether or not their vaccine works against the new Omicron variant. The United States bans travel from 8 South African Countries.

November 27th, 2021: The United Kingdom detects two cases of the Omicron Variant in residents. Dr. Fauci says that it's possible the new variant is already in the United States but undetected.

November 28th, 2021: The Netherlands detect 13 cases of the Omicron variant amongst passengers from two flights from South Africa, of which 61 total passengers tested positive for COVID-19. Australia detects New cases of the Omicron variant, from South African travelers. Canada detects two cases of the Omicron COVID-19 variant.

November 29th, 2021: Moderna announces it will take months to develop a Omicron Variant specific vaccine, but that a higher dose of their current vaccine, equal to 100 Micrograms, may be enough for now as a booster. New cases of the Omicron Variant are discovered in Scotland (6) and Switzerland (1) and 13 members of a Portugese soccer team test positive with the Omicron Variant in Lisbon, Portugal. The CDC changes booster guidance, saying all adults should get one, whereas before they said they may get a booster.

November 30th, 2021: Regeneron announces their COVID-19 antibody cocktail treatment is not as effective against the Omicron variant. Japan announces its first case of the Omicron Variant in a Namibian Diplomat. An FDA Panel endorses the Merck anti-viral COVID-19 pill for emergency use.

December 1st, 2021: Japan announces they are barring all foreign travelers from entering the country amongst the new Omicron Variant. The United States announces their first confirmed case of the Omicron Variant in California from a resident who recently visited South Africa on November 22nd. Prime Minister Mitsokakis of Greece announces any resident 60 years or older who has not scheduled a vaccination NY January 6th will face monthly fines of 100 Euros.

December 2nd, 2021: The TSA announces an extension of mask mandates for domestic travel through March 18th, 2022. President Biden announces all health insurers must cover the cost of at-home COVID-19 testing, and that anyone not covered by insurance will have access to free testing at thousands of locations nationwide. Colorado officials announce a third US Omicron variant case in a woman who had recently visited South Africa. New York City announces their first confirmed case of the Omicron Variant. Hawaii confirms its first case of the Omicron Variant in a resident who had no links to South Africa, indicating the variant has already begun spreading in Hawaii. Germany announces a nationwide lockdown of the unvaccinated.

December 3rd, 2021: A new jobs report found the US added 210,000 jobs in the previous month, bringing unemployment down to 4.2%.

December 4th, 2021: Hospitalizations have risen sharply in the Gauteng Province, which includes Johannesburg, by almost 400% since the beginning of November.

December 5th, 2021: The WHO announces that due to "extreme vaccine discrimination", Africa will not recover from the COVID-19 Pandemic within the next year given the original WHO goal of vaccinating 40% of Africans by the end of 2021 when only 1 in 15 Africans have been vaccinated so far, according to a Mo Ibrahim Foundation Report. A new NPR analysis shows that in counties that voted heavily for Donald Trump, residents were three times as likely to die from COVID-19 than counties that voted heavily for Joe Biden.

December 6th, 2021: New York City officials announce a vaccine mandate for private employers in the city that will take effect December 27th, a first of its kind.

December 7th, 2021: The NBA announces to teams that any unvaccinated player will not be able to travel to Toronto to play games due to Canada's new entry requirement of being vaccinated.

December 8th, 2021: Pfizer announces that a third dose of their vaccine neutralized the Omicron Variant in early lab tests, but the two dose regimen was significantly less effective. Scientists from Yale announce that new findings show the reason why obese persons may experience worse COVID-19 than others is due to COVID-19s ability to infect body fat.

December 9th, 2021: At least 791,933 Americans have died from COVID-19.

December 10th, 2021: An Omicron test in the UK finds booster doses offer 75% protection against symptomatic COVID-19.

December 11th, 2021: The CDC identified 43 cases of the Omicron Variant in the United States in the first week of December, with all of them being mild.

December 12th, 2021: The South African President tests positive for COVID-19 and is mildly ill.I'll. Austria ends lockdown for unvaccinated people.

December 13th, 2021: California reimposes universal mask mandates for indoors.

December 14th, 2021: Pfizer announces their COVID-19 pill was 89% effective at reducing risk of hospitalization, and would likely be effective against Omicron. At least 800,000 Americans have died from COVID-19.

December 15th, 2021: The Fed announces it will increase interest rates up to 3 times in 2022 to combat pandemic inflation.

December 16th, 2021: The CDC issues an advisory for people to get a Pfizer or Moderna booster shot, due to Johnson & Johnson booster shot issues with rare blood clotting.

December 17th, 2021: The CDC announces that any unvaccinated student exposed to COVID-19 may remain in school if tested regularly. Pfizer pushes back plans for a 2-5 year old COVID-19 vaccine due to trial results showing less than expected results. A federal judge reimposes President Joe Biden's vaccine and testing mandate for large employers.

December 18th, 2021: The UK records 90,000 new COVID-19 cases, Paris cancels New year celebrations, and the Netherlands announces a nationwide lockdown beginning tomorrow to curb the spread of the Omicron Variant.

December 19th, 2021: US Senators Elizabeth Warren and Cory Booker test positive for COVID-19.

December 20th, 2021: Israel moves to ban travel to the United States due to Omicron variant concerns. Moderna announces a COVID-19 booster shot works well against Omicron in lab tests. The City of Boston announces that beginning January 15th, you will need to show proof of vaccination to enter any bar, restaurant, entertainment venue, gym, etc. The CDC announces that 73% of all recent COVID-19 cases of the last week are the Omicron Variant. The National Hockey League announces the league will suspend their season for one week due to COVID-19 outbreaks.

December 21st, 2021: President Biden announces the government will distribute 500 million free at-home COVID-19 tests and send more federal medical workers to overburdened hospitals. The NHL announces no athletes will travel to Beijing for the winter Olympics due to COVID-19 concerns.

December 22nd, 2021: New studies from Scotland and South Africa indicate the risk of hospitalization from Omicron is substantially lower than from Delta. The United States approves the Pfizer COVID-19 pill for home use, and is aimed at being prescribed for high risk people.

December 23rd, 2021: The FDA authorizes Mercks COVID-19 antiviral pill. The UK releases a study saying that booster shots lose their strength against the Omicron Variant after 10 weeks.

December 24th, 2021: The White House announces a lift on the travel ban to South Africa and other African countries which started due to the Omicron Variants spread.

December 25th, 2021: Thousands of flights are cancelled around the country and world as Omicron spreads and forces sick pilots to stay home.

December 26th, 2021: At least 814,970 Americans have died from COVID-19. France sets a record for most new cases of COVID-19 in a day with over 100,000. Spiderman: No Way Home sets a new global pandemic record with over $1 Billion in sales at movie theatres.

December 27th, 2021: At least 2,000 more flights are cancelled with 3,000 more delayed as COVID-19 cases continue to increase and impact travel. Dr. Fauci in an interview raises the prospect of vaccine requirements in order to fly domestically to act as an incentive to get vaccinated. The CDC announces shortened isolation guidance if you test positive for COVID-19, requiring 5 days of quarantine and not 10 if you have no symptoms. December 28th, 2021: Israel begins testing a fourth Pfizer COVID-19 dose. Hugh Jackman tests positive for COVID-19. The US hits an all-time record for new daily COVID-19 cases with 267,000. December 29th, 2021: 20 NYC CityMD testing locations close due to staffing shortages from COVID-19, the NYC Police department cancelled days off, and 1 out of 3 paramedics are out in the entire city with one entire subway line suspended due to staff shortages. December 30th, 2021: At least 821,302 Americans have died from COVID-19. The CDC advises against cruise ship travel regardless of vaccination status. The latest data shows 656 Massachusetts government employees were fired with 332 more employees quitting over Governor Bakers executive order requiring vaccination for state employees by October 17th, 2021, with 97.1% of all employees complying.

December 31st, 2021: The latest 7-day moving average for new COVID-19 cases in the USA hits another record with 378,516.

January 1st, 2022: Nearly 4,400 flights were cancelled worldwide with 2,500 of them in the USA due to rising COVID-19 cases.

January 2nd, 2022: Global superstar soccer player Lionel Messi tests positive for COVID-19. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin tests positive for COVID-19.

January 3rd, 2022: The FDA approves Pfizers COVID-19 booster shot for children as young as 12. The United Arab Emirates announces a ban on all non-vaccinated and non-boosted citizens leaving the country, taking effect January 10th. Starbucks announces all employees must be vaccinated by February 9th or face regular COVID-19 testing. For the first time ever, the United States reports over 1 Million new COVID-19 cases in a day.

January 4th, 2022: The CDC warns tourists to not travel to Aruba, in their first travel warning of 2022 for COVID-19 risk.

January 5th, 2022: Australia announces intention to withdraw tennis star Novak Djokovic's visa and deport him when he fly's to the country for the Australian Open which accepted a medical exemption for him to play without being vaccinated.

January 6th, 2022: The Mayo Clinic, a top-rated health system in the US, announces they will be laying off 1% of their staff for not complying with a deadline for being vaccinated.

January 7th, 2022: The White House finalized a contract with COVID-19 test manufacturers to provide 500 million free COVID-19 tests to the public.

January 8th, 2022: 835,150 Americans have died from COVID-19.

January 9th, 2022: Congresswoman Alexandra Cortes tests positive for COVID-19.

January 10th, 2022: An Australian Court overruled the Australian Government and allows tennis star Novak Djokovic to play in the Australian Open. The Biden Administration announced that health providers will be required to cover up to eight at-home COVID-19 tests per month per member.

January 11th, 2022: The City of Altamonte Springs, Florida publishes their latest sewer water analysis for COVID-19 and found that around 70% of all residents currently have COVID-19.

January 12th, 2022: Former President Donald Trump calls politicians who do not say if they received a booster or not "gutless".

January 13th, 2022: The Biden Administration announces its purchasing 500 million additional COVID-19 at-home tests and President Biden announces a plan to provide Americans with high quality facemasks. The US Supreme Court blocks the OSHA rule for large employers to require employees be vaccinated or tested regularly, but does allow for health care workers in facilities that take Medicare or Medicaid to be required to be vaccinated.

January 14th, 2022: Australia cancels tennis star Novak Djokovic's visa again. The Biden Administration announces that Americans will be able to order free COVID-19 tests online beginning Wednesday of next week, shipping within 7 to 12 days or order. The CDC updates mask recommendations saying you should "wear the most protective mask you can" and cloth masks aren't ass effective as other options.

January 15th, 2022: A Norweigen Cruise on the way to The Caribbean is cancelled mid-cruise due to COVID-19 and docks while waiting until it can return to New York.

January 16th, 2022: Novak Djokovic is deported from Australia.

January 17th, 2022: China cancels plans to sell tickets to the public for the winter Olympics amid COVID-19 concerns.

January 18th, 2022: Australia records 74 COVID-19 deaths in a day, a pandemic record. Over 850,000 Americans have died from COVID-19.

January 19th, 2022: The White House announces they are going to obtain 400 million free K95 masks and distribute to pharmacies and health centers around the country for people to get for free.

January 20th, 2022: Austria's lower house of parliament votes to make COVID-19 vaccines mandatory for all Austrian adults over the age of 18, still needing the upper house and President to sign off.

January 21st, 2022: A Federal Judge blocks the Biden Administrations federal vaccine mandate for workers, after over 95% of workers were vaccinated.

January 22nd, 2022: A new program begins in New Mexico where state employees, including the governor, will begin subbing in classrooms amid staff shortages.

January 23rd, 2022: At least 865,116 Americans have died from COVID-19. Pakistan announces only fully vaccinated persons will be allowed to enter Mosques. NBA legend John Stockton has his season tickets to Gonzaga basketball revoked over his refusal to follow mask policy at the school in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19.

January 24th, 2022: The World Health Organization chief says the COVID-19 Pandemic has reached a "critical juncture" and that if nations work together the pandemic can end in 2022, especially if 70% of the world can be fully vaccinated at a minimum. The FDA withdraws authorization for Regeneron and Eli Lilly antibody drugs due to ineffectiveness against the Omicron Variant. A judge struck down NYC's mask mandate saying that they can't enforce it without state legislature approval.

January 25th, 2022: Pfizer announces they have begun testing a new vaccine that targets the Omicron Variant, expecting results during the first half of the year.

January 26th, 2022: Moderna announces their Booster shot is effective against Omicron but only for 6 months, and the company also said they are developing an Omicron specific booster.

January 27th, 2022: The US Economy grew 1.7% in the fourth quarter, capping off the largest one year increase in the economy size since 1984, with an annual growth of 5.7%.

January 28th, 2022: New COVID-19 cases have dropped 27% in the United States in the last 2 weeks since a peak on January 14th. US Senator Mitt Romney tests positive for COVID-19.

January 29th, 2022: A truck convoy protesting COVID-19 vaccine mandates in Canada for truckers reaches the Capital, Ottawa.

January 30th, 2022: NYC announces a program where the city will send free anti-viral pills to anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 and is at a higher risk from COVID-19.

January 31st, 2022: At least 5,663,363 people worldwide have died from COVID-19. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tests positive for COVID-19 and begins working in isolation. The FDA grants full approval for the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for adults 18 years and older.

February 1st, 2022: Pfizer requests that the FDA give authorization to a low dose of their COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 6 months to 5 years old.

February 2nd, 2022: China will be donating 10 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines to COVAX to help poorer countries vaccinate their populations. Dr. Fauci says that at least 70% to 85% of the United States needs to be vaccinated against COVID-19 before the country can truly return to a sense of normalcy.

February 3rd, 2022: Medicare announces they will start paying for at home COVID-19 tests this upcoming spring.

February 4th, 2022: The USA added 467,000 jobs in January with the jobless rate rising slightly to 4%. At least 900,000 Americans have died from COVID-19.

February 5th, 2022: An Illinois judge rules that Governor J.B. Pritzkers mask mandate in schools was authorized illegally, and can not go into effect, to which the governor directed his attorney General to immediately appeal.

February 6th, 2022: CVS and Walgreens removes the customer limit on purchasing at home tests for COVID-19.

February 7th, 2022: The New Jersey Governor, a Democrat, is expected to announce an end to mask mandates in schools for students and teachers in what they are calling a "huge step toward normalcy". A positive COVID-19 test sidelines American figure skater Vincent Zhou in the Beijing Winter Olympics. California Governor Galvin Newsom announces the states indoor mask mandate will expire next week.

February 8th, 2022: New York State ends indoor mask mandates. Johnson & Johnson ends production of their COVID-19 vaccine.

February 9th, 2022: The number of hospitalized patients in the USA from COVID-19 dips below 100,000 for the first time in over a month. The Navy discharged 240 service members for not getting vaccinated against COVID-19.

February 10th, 2022: New daily COVID-19 cases in the United States have dropped 63% in the last 14 days. At least 911,072 Americans have died from COVID-19. Prince Charles in the UK tests positive for the second time for COVID-19.

February 11th, 2022: The FDA, in a reversal, will wait to authorize a Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children under 5 years old until they get more data. The CDC announces that booster shots lose potency after about 4 months, raising the possibility some people will need another booster.

February 12th, 2022: Ottawa Police in Canada deal with "aggressive, illegal behavior" by anti-vaccine protestors in the capital.

February 13th, 2022: Dr. Fauci says that the US has almost reached the end of the "full blown" pandemic.

February 14th, 2022: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada invokes emergency powers to disband truckers protesting vaccine mandates. New York City fired 1,430 city workers who failed to comply with their vaccine mandate, representing less than 1% of their 370,000 person work force.

February 15th, 2022:The Netherlands is to drop most COVID-19 measures beginning the upcoming Friday.

February 16th, 2022: The Coachella and Stagecoach festivals, which are outdoor events, drop mask, vaccine, and test requirements.

February 17th, 2022: Adidas dropped their mandatory vaccine requirement for employees citing the federal guidelines being stopped.

February 18th, 2022: New research from Japan suggests the BA.2 Subvariant of Omicron is more dangerous and can evade monoclonal treatments, but a booster shot reduces risk of infection by 74%.

February 19th, 2022: Canadian police arrest 47 remaining COVID-19 protestors in Ottawa.

February 20th, 2022: Queen Elizabeth tests positive for COVID-19, and is experiencing mild symptoms.

February 21st, 2022: at least 933,899 Americans have died from COVID-19, and at least 5,885,445 people worldwide have died from COVID-19.

February 22nd, 2022: Hong Kong orders compulsory COVID-19 tests for all residents.

February 23rd, 2022: Ugandan officials propose a new law to fine or jail anti-vaxxers. Los Angeles County announces an end to indoor mask mandates for fully vaccinated people.

February 24th, 2022: Reports come out that the CDC is expected to release new guidance as soon as tomorrow loosening guidelines for when and where Americans should wear masks. Canadian health authorities approve a plant based COVID-19 vaccine manufactured by Medicago.

February 25th, 2022: The CDC announces that healthy Americans do not need to wear masks indoors.

February 26th, 2022: The Thailand Health Ministry instructs hospitals to treat COVID-19 as endemic starting March 1st.

February 27th, 2022: A trucker convoy from California heading to Washington DC falters and dissipates due to lack of interest.

February 28th, 2022: The State with the highest and lowest percentage of its population fully vaccinated is Rhode Island at 81% and Alabama at 50%, respectively, and the state with the most and least people boosted is Vermont at 47%, and New Hampshire at 14%, respectively.

March 1st, 2022: After a COVID-19 scare and feeling well, Queen Elizabeth returns to her duties

March 2nd, 2022: In a public appearance at a high school, Governor DeSantis of Florida tells masked students to stop the "COVID theater"

March 3rd, 2022: The NFL and NFLPA agree to drop all COVID-19 protocols.

March 4th, 2022: With falling COVID-19 cases, US employers added 678,000 jobs in February.

March 5th, 2022: Around 700 opponents of COVID-19 restrictions rallied in Olympia, Washington at the state house.

March 6th, 2022: Hundreds of truckers from "The Peoples Convoy" and other protestors in vehicles encircled Washington, D.C. driving a loop around the city to slow traffic, protesting the national emergency and wanting an end to all COVID-19 rules centered on masks and vaccines.

March 7th, 2022: At least 6 Million people have died from COVID-19 worldwide. Floridas Surgeon General announces that the state will recommend against vaccinating healthy children when a vaccine is available.

March 8th, 2022: Hawaii becomes the last state to announce an end to their indoor mask mandate. With a lag in increased production in oil worldwide since the pandemic started, and people beginning to return to normal lives, gas prices have increased to a record $4.17 a gallon on average in the United States, an all time high not accounting for inflation.

March 9th, 2022: Pfizer begins clinical trials for their anti-viral COVID-19 pill, Paxlovid, in children aged 6 to 17.

March 10th, 2022: The TSA is extending their mask mandate on planes through at least April 18th.

March 11th, 2022: On the two-year anniversary of the COVID-19 Pandemic declaration, at least 964,057 Americans have died and 6,028,428 people worldwide have died from COVID-19.

March 12th, 2022: A new COVID-19 outbreak rages in China where the Shanghai school system was closed and shifted online temporarily.

March 13th, 2022: Former President Barack Obama tests positive for COVID-19.

March 14th, 2022: China orders 51 million residents into lockdown as COVID-19 cases surge.

March 15th, 2022: The Second Gentleman Doug Ermoff tests positive for COVID-19.

March 16th, 2022: The CDC reports that around a quarter of all new COVID-19 cases are from the "stealth" COVID-19 subvariant BA.2

March 17th, 2022: The CDC anticipates COVID-19 cases in the United States will rise over the coming weeks due to the BA.2 Variant.

March 18th, 2022: New York City Health Officials identify the BA.2 Variant spreading locally. Hong Kong hits 1 million cumulative COVID-19 cases. Moderna requests from the FDA approval for a second booster for adults.

March 19th, 2022: China reports their first COVID-19 death since January 2021.

March 20th, 2022: Shanghai Disney Resort closes due to COVID-19 outbreak.

March 21st, 2022: A new study says the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine is durable and effective, with lasting immunity going at least 6 months.

March 22nd, 2022: White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki tests positive for COVID-19. Hillary Clinton tests positive for COVID-19.

March 23rd, 2022: Moderna announces that their trials of 6 month olds to 5 year old children with their COVID-19 vaccine is effective and are planning to seek FDA authorization in the coming weeks.

March 24th, 2022: The CEO's of 10 airlines and cargo carriers ask for President Biden to end mask mandates and COVID-19 testing for international travelers.

March 25th, 2022: Virginia parents win a legal battle to require students in a classroom with a vulnerable child must wear a mask.

March 26th, 2022: The number of people infected with COVID-19 in the United Kingdom over the past week has increased roughly by a third. At least 11.1 Billion vaccine doses have been administered worldwide.

March 27th, 2022: Most of Shanghai is shut down as mass testing begins for COVID-19.

March 28th, 2022: The prime Minister of Germany, Olaf Scholz, announces a disagreement with the planned intellectual property waiver for COVID-19 vaccines, saying the solution to expanded access is to move manufacturing facilities into Africa, rather than release intellectual property.

March 29th, 2022: The FDA approves a second booster of the Pfizer COVID-19 shot for adults 50 and older. The CDC announces that the Omicron BA.2 subvariant is now the dominant strain in the United States.

March 30th, 2022: The Biden Administration announces that as soon as May, they will be ending border restrictions with Mexico put in place during COVID-19s early days.

March 31st, 2022: A large scale clinical trial of Ivermictin was released and showed that the drug did not show any signs of alleviating COVID-19.

April 1st, 2022: At least 979,262 Americans have died from COVID-19. Unemployment falls to 3.6%, a pandemic era low.

April 2nd, 2022: Two New Jersey high schools bring back a mask mandate due to a spike in local cases.

April 3rd, 2022: Daniel Craig's return to Broadway is postponed due to testing positive for COVID-19.

April 4th, 2022: Concerns increase in the United States over the nearing end to federal funds for COVID-19 resources including testing and treatment.

April 5th, 2022: Worldwide, at least 6,153,624 people have died from COVID-19.

April 6th, 2022: US Attorney General Merrick Garland tests positive for COVID-19, but is not experiencing symptoms.

April 7th, 2022: US House Majority Leader Nancy Pelosi tests positive for COVID-19 and is asymptomatic.

April 8th, 2022: Dr. Fauci says the United States will likely experience a COVID-19 surge in the fall.

April 9th, 2022: US Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack tests positive for COVID-19.

April 10th, 2022: NYC Mayor Eric Adams tests positive for COVID-19.

April 11th, 2022: The City of Philadelphia announces a return to an indoor mask mandate next week.

April 12th, 2022: COVID-19 infections in the USA begin to rise.

April 13th, 2022: At least 984,838 Americans have died from COVID-19.

April 14th, 2022: FDA grants emergency use authorization for the first COVID-19 breath test, a tool that can be used at medical facilities and mobile testing centers.

April 15th, 2022: A new study from John's Hopkins suggests that the loss of smell in COVID-19 patients may be from inflammation triggered by the immune system.

April 16th, 2022: The WHO releases a new estimate of worldwide COVID-19 deaths, placing deaths at at least 15 million people.

April 17th, 2022: China reports 3 COVID-19 deaths in Shanghai in elderly, non-vaccinated residents for the first time since locking down the City in March.

April 18th, 2022: The rise in at-home testing may be leading to large undercounts of COVID-19 cases according to a new study by the Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation who said that as little as 7% of all positive COVID-19 cases in the United States are likely being captured. A federal judge strikes down the CDC mandate on mask usage on all forms of transportation, including airplanes, and as a result, Amtrak, and the airlines Delta, United, American, Southwest, Alaskan, and Frontier all dropped mask requirements on their planes.

April 19th, 2022: The Japanese Health Ministry approves the use of the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine with deliveries to Japan to begin in May.

April 20th, 2022: The US Justice Department formally appeals a judges ruling on masks being required for transportation.

April 21st, 2022: The Late Show cancels an episode due to its host, Steven Colbert, testing positive for COVID-19.

April 22nd, 2022: Philadelphia ends a brief indoor mask mandate.

April 23rd, 2022: Shanghai reports 39 COVID-19 deaths.

April 24th, 2022: Newly installed green fencing blocking people into apartments outrage residents in Shanghai as the government try's to curtail new COVID-19 cases.

April 25th, 2022: The Biden Administration announces that upon return from congressional recess, the white house will be pursuing a $10 Billion package to continue the federal response to COVID-19. A federal judge temporarily blocks President Bidens administration from ending title 42.

April 26th, 2022: Vice President Kamala Harris tests positive for COVID-19. Pfizer requests FDA emergency authorization use for a booster dose of their COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 5 through 11. Dr. Fauci announces on PBS that the United States is out of the Pandemic phase of COVID-19.

April 27th, 2022: Moderna requests FDA Authorization for their COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 6 months through 5 years old.

April 28th, 2022: Dr. Fauci walks back earlier comments and says that the United States is out of the "acute" phase of the pandemic, rather than the pandemic itself.

April 29th, 2022: South Africa begins to enter a fifth wave of COVID-19 earlier than anticipated

April 30th, 2022: Shanghai officials announce no new COVID-19 cases in the city outside of quarantined areas.

May 1st, 2022: Moderna announces they believe they will have a large amount of booster doses available in the fall to protect against Omicron and other variants.

May 2nd, 2022: New Zealand re-opens to tourists for the first time since the beginning of COVID-19. Jimmy Kimmel tests positive for COVID-19.

May 3rd, 2022: The four parties working on a framework to intellectual property waivers for COVID-19 vaccines have come to a preliminary agreement, and a deal likely by June.

May 4th, 2022: US Secretary of State Blinken tests positive for COVID-19.

May 5th, 2022: The World Health Organization announces that at least 14.9 Million people worldwide have died either directly or indirectly from COVID-19. The FDA announces they are limiting use of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine due to blood clot risks.

May 6th, 2022: The Biden Administration warns the United States may see up to 100 million COVID-19 infections in the fall and winter.

May 7th, 2022: At least 996,160 Americans have died from COVID-19.

May 8th, 2022: Videos circulated online from Shanghai show people being dragged from their homes by health workers to curb COVID-19 cases in the city.

May 9th, 2022: New COVID-19 cases are rising in all but 7 states.

May 10th, 2022: A UK trial finds a fourth dose of booster vaccines offers increased protection, particularly for those over 70.

May 11th, 2022: The European Unions Aviation Safety Agency recommends dropping face mask requirements on airplanes, with the exception of individuals who exhibit coughing.

May 12th, 2022: The Biden Administration announces that the United States has surpassed 1 million deaths from COVID-19.

May 13th, 2022: North Korean dictator Kim Jong-Un calls the COVID-19 outbreak a "great disaster" as the country reports 21 new deaths. The New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern tests positive for COVID-19.

May 14th, 2022: The Broadway production "Moulin Rouge" has been cancelled for today and tomorrow due to COVID-19 outbreaks amongst members of the company.

May 15th, 2022: North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un orders the military to stabilize medicine supplies in the country as the nation experiences its first COVID-19 wave.

May 16th, 2022: At least 257.9 million people in the United States have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, with another 102.3 million people receiving a booster dose.

May 17th, 2022: The FDA grants emergency use authorization for booster shots for children aged 5 through 11.

May 18th, 2022: President Bidens daughter Ashley tests positive for COVID-19. The CDC announces that around one third of all Americans should mask based on their COVID-19 risk.

May 19th, 2022: The 7 day average for hospitalizations from COVID-19 rose 19% over the previous week in the USA.

May 20th, 2022: The CDC recommends boosters for people 5 years of age and up.

May 21st, 2022: Spain government announces that UK citizens can travel to the country without being vaccinated if they present a negative COVID-19 test.

May 22nd, 2022: The Chief of WHO said the COVID-19 Pandemic is "most certainly not over".

May 23rd, 2022: Pfizer announces that a COVID-19 shot they developed for children under 5 is 80% effective against Omicron.

May 24th, 2022: Sweden recommends a fifth COVID-19 shot for anyone with serious illness, plus including pregnant women.

May 25th, 2022: The CDC warns that a COVID-19 patient taking Paxlovid may see symptoms reappear after the patient begins to feel better.

May 26th, 2022: A new Veterans Affairs study in the United States found that vaccination against COVID-19 had a small effect on mitigating long COVID, reducing risk by 15%.

May 27th, 2022: The 14 day change in COVID-19 infections in the USA is at 26%, with hospitalizations up 29%, and deaths increasing by 12%.

May 28th, 2022: The Chinese city of Shanghai nears re-opening as soon as the upcoming week.

May 29th, 2022: The Omicron subvariant BA.2.12.1 was responsible for 58% of infections in the previous week in the USA.

May 30th, 2022: Chinas COVID-19 cases drop below 100 for the first time since March.

May 31st, 2022: The UK Arts Minister says that travel agencies should have been prepared for a surge in business following post-pandemic holidays as UK travelers face cancelled flights and long delays.

June 1st, 2022: A new UK study found at least 2 million residents have long COVID-19.

June 2nd, 2022: Prince Andrew tests positive for COVID-19.

June 3rd, 2022: The LA County Public Health Director announces an indoor mask mandate will be reinstated if hospitalizations increase.

June 4th, 2022: The Doobie Brothers Band announces rescheduled concert dates amidst an outbreak of COVID-19 amongst their touring party.

June 5th, 2022: Alameda County, California, reinstates an indoor mask mandate

June 6th, 2022: A new report found that overall, 82 million COVID-19 vaccines were thrown out by pharmacies and U.S. States, Federal Agencies, and territories, accounting for 11% of all vaccines distributed by the Federal Government.

June 7th, 2022: The FDA advisers have recommended approving the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine.

June 8th, 2022: Moderna announces their COVID-19 booster boosts protection against Omicron.

June 9th, 2022: Thousands of pop up testing centers around Beijing, China have started as to assist in the countries "zero-COVID" strategy.

June 10th, 2022: Inflation hits a 40 year high in the month of may with an 8.6% increase in prices, partially die to supply chain issues from residual pandemic problems. The United States announces that they will lift the testing requirement for air travelers entering the country.

June 11th, 2022: New data published by the Australian Government found that over 95% of residents over 16 years old are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

June 12th, 2022: COVID-19 hospitalizations have increased 11% over the last 14 days in the United States as net new cases begin to stall.

June 13th, 2022: EU officials express concern over Omicron sub-variants spreading and leading to increased COVID-19 deaths.

June 14th, 2022: European governments pressure Pfizer to renegotiate vaccine contracts due to the possibility of millions of doses of vaccines going to waste.

June 15th, 2022: Dr. Fauci tests positive for COVID-19 and is experiencing mild symptoms. FDA Advisors recommend the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for children as young at 6 months old.

June 16th, 2022: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis defends his decision to not pre-order COVID-19 vaccines for children under 5 years old, stating that "risks outweigh the benefits" and that the state would not be partaking in that, although doctors in Florida can order the vaccine for patients.

June 17th, 2022: The FDA has authorized the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for children under 5 years old.

June 18th, 2022: The CDC approves the COVID-19 vaccine for children under 5 years old.

June 19th, 2022: China reports 109 new cases of COVID-19.

June 20th, 2022: A Macau hotel is locked down due to a COVID-19 outbreak, and 700 people are quarantined.

June 21st, 2022: Israel has over 10,000 new COVID-19 cases for a second day in a row.

June 22nd, 2022: Moderna announces their bivalent COVID-19 vaccine works against Omicron subvariants BA.4 and BA.5.

June 23rd, 2022: At least 35% of new COVID-19 infections in the last week in the United States is from BA.4 and BA.5 variants.

June 24th, 2022: A new report identifies that at least 20 million lives were saved in the first year of COVID-19 vaccines worldwide.

June 25th, 2022: Beijing announces primary and secondary schools can reopen to in person instruction.

June 26th, 2022: New COVID-19 cases in the United States stays steady over the previous 2 weeks, and overall at least 86,899,773 total cases have been identified formally in the country.

June 27th, 2022: NY Governor Hochul asks that parents begin to plan a time to consult with their pediatrician about getting children vaccinated against COVID-19.

June 28th, 2022: A committee recommends the FDA seek new Omicron boosters for the fall. The Sesame Workshop announces Elmo has been vaccinated against COVID-19.

June 29th, 2022: Dr. Fauci announces he is taking a second round of the drug Paxlovid due to a symptom rebound from an antiviral treatment

June 30th, 2022: American health officials are anticipated to purchase at least 105 million doses of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine ahead of a campaign in the fall to boost more residents.

July 1st, 2022: The UK office for national statistics announces a 32% rise in COVID-19 infections over the previous week, driven by Omicron subvariants BA.4 and BA.5.

-Tyler, The National Watch

Cover image source: CDC Image Library