70% Of Americans Have Now Taken One Dose Of Vaccine, A Month Later Than Biden Goal

President Joe Biden on Monday reached his goal of getting 70% of eligible Americans at least partially vaccinated.

The goal, which was initially set to be reached on July 4, is an important milestone to the U.S., which is seeing a significant increase of COVID-19 cases among unvaccinated individuals who are more vulnerable to the new Delta variant.

“Let’s continue working to get more eligible vaccinated,” Cyrus Shahpar, the COVID-19 data director for the Biden administration, posted on Twitter.

However impressive this national milestone might be, vaccination rates between states vary widely.

Massachusetts is currently the state with the highest vaccination rate, with 73% of eligible individuals having taken one dose. Meanwhile, Tennessee only has 45% of its population partially vaccinated.

The population with low immunization rates are directly feeling the impact of these numbers, as the rise in COVID cases is particularly targeting unvaccinated individuals.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last week announced new mask guidelines in response to new cases in the U.S. They urged Americans to wear masks in indoor public areas regardless of their vaccination status.