PHOENIX — Governor Doug Ducey today released the following statement in response to the rise in COVID-19 cases due to the Delta variant and to emphasize the importance of getting vaccinated at one of the many available locations:
“We have so much more information about COVID-19 now than when we first learned about this disease. Our hearts are with everyone who has been impacted by this virus, directly or indirectly. Today, thanks to the miracle of modern science, we have something we didn’t have last year: a vaccine.
“Here are some facts about the current cases we are seeing:
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97 percent of people hospitalized for COVID-19 infections are unvaccinated, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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Of the more than 160 million Americans who have been fully vaccinated, 3,733 have been hospitalized for a severe COVID-19 infection and 791 have died from the virus, according to the CDC. (Source: Axios)
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In Arizona, 95 percent of the reported cases in the month of May were among those not fully vaccinated. So far since March, 98 percent of the COVID-19 deaths in Arizona were among those not fully vaccinated.
“In December, the first Arizonans were able to get vaccinated — starting with health care heroes and vulnerable individuals. Arizona has become a national model for vaccination distribution. Now, seven months after vaccinations began, more than 3.3 million Arizonans are fully vaccinated and appointments are readily available for anyone who wants one.
“Please get the vaccine. We have made it clear from the very beginning that we will never mandate the vaccine, and we’ve taken action to prevent vaccine passports or mandates. We’ve made sure that students aren’t discriminated against in our universities or public schools for their vaccine status. We’ve prevented mask mandates from being imposed on our businesses and on the public. We have also encouraged everyone to get this vaccine. It is the surest way of keeping you and your loved ones safe. I got my shot once I was eligible, and I’m glad I did.
“Medical professionals in Arizona and across the country all agree that getting vaccinated is safe, it will protect you and it is the right choice. You can learn more and schedule an appointment at https://www.azdhs.gov/covid19/vaccines. There is plenty of supply of the vaccine, it’s easy to get, and it’s free. Check the Arizona Department of Health Services website for helpful information, talk to your doctor or another trusted medical professional, and consider asking your loved ones about their vaccination experience.
“Arizonans have the ability to protect themselves from COVID-19 thanks to the vaccine. Businesses are open, students are back in the classroom, loved ones are gathering and our economy is booming.
“We’re going to keep it that way. We will not be listening to the lockdown lobby. Businesses will stay open. Students will be able to attend school. There will be no mask mandates. We have a proven solution with the vaccine. I strongly encourage every Arizonan who is eligible for the vaccine to get it so they can protect themselves and our whole state.”