Though vaccine demand has increased in areas hit hard by Delta surges, health systems in some states say they are already overwhelmed. In Austin, Texas, officials activated the emergency text alert system to warn residents the situation is “dire” and healthcare resources are limited. This comes as Governor Greg Abbott is fighting statewide mitigation efforts.

In Florida, which accounts for nearly a quarter of cases nationwide, conservative radio host and anti-vaccine propagandist Dick Farrel has died of COVID-19. Before dying, he urged his friends to get vaccinated. Republican Governor Ron DeSantis has banned mask mandates and has threatened to withhold funds from school districts that defy the ban.

In a reversal, Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, said she supports requiring vaccines for teachers. The AFT is meeting this week to consider issuing the mandate. Dr. Fauci recently said he expects a “flood” of vaccine mandates at businesses and schools as soon as the shots receive full FDA approval.