US Hoteliers Hopeful Despite Slowing Vaccination Rates
Travel Demand Strong As Nation Misses July 4 Vaccination Target
Top U.S. officials had openly professed hopes the upcoming Fourth of July weekend would mark a return to normal for the country, with a target of at least 70% of adults having received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine by that point.
Top U.S. officials had openly professed hopes the upcoming Fourth of July weekend would mark a return to normal for the country, with a target of at least 70% of adults having received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine by that point.
But with vaccination rates plateauing, it now seems the country will broadly fall short of that goal — with many states lagging well behind that pace.
As of June 30, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data showed 180.7 million Americans — or 67% of the adult population — had received at least one dose and 154.9 million people — or 57% — were fully vaccinated. In all, 22 U.S. states and territories had surpassed President Biden's goal of 70% partially or fully vaccinated, led by Vermont at 85%. Mississippi showed the lowest vaccination rate in the country with 46% of adults having received at least one dose and 38% fully vaccinated.
Hoteliers across the country still see a a strong resurgence in travel demand for a holiday weekend they have long hoped would be emblematic of a wider rebound for the industry.