Proclaiming that the COVID pandemic is “now in a different phase,” the White House announced the end of most jab mandates for federal employees, international travelers’ contractors, Head Start employees and health care workers at many hospitals.

The new policy will take effect May 11, the same day that other federal COVID-19 policies will end, such as health insurance coverage for virus testing and vaccinations. Mandatory lab reporting of COVID-19 data will also come to an end.

The announcement will most likely signal a change in policy for public gatherings such as sporting events, The New York Times said. “Among them is likely to be Novak Djokovic, the Serbian professional tennis player who is currently ranked No. 1 in the world in men’s singles but who has been banned from coming to play in the United States because he will not confirm that he is vaccinated.

The lifting of the vaccine requirement for international travelers will most likely mean Mr. Djokovic will be able to play in the U.S. Open, which is scheduled to take place in New York in August and September.”

SOURCE:

The New York Times May 1, 2023