Yelp will allow businesses to display information on their profiles about COVID-19 vaccination requirements and whether staff are vaccinated.
The review website and app announced Thursday that businesses can post whether customers must show proof of vaccination and whether staff are fully vaccinated. Users will also be able to filter businesses based on those vaccination policies.
Yelp will help protect businesses that use the new features from negative reviews about their COVID-19 policies, according to Reuters.
WHY IT MATTERS
The more-contagious delta variant is driving a fourth wave of COVID-19 in the U.S., especially in states with high numbers of the unvaccinated.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recorded more than 103,000 new COVID-19 cases on Aug. 3, compared with about 15,000 new cases a month ago. Only about half the population is fully vaccinated.
Memorial Healthcare System, based in Hollywood, Fla., is suspending elective procedures and adding hospital beds to conference rooms, an auditorium and a cafeteria as more patients head to the hospital for COVID-19 care, reported the Associated Press.
According to data from the Department of Health and Human Services released Tuesday, more than 11,500 people were hospitalized with COVID-19 in Florida, a new peak.
“We are seeing a surge like we’ve not seen before in terms of the patients coming,” Memorial’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Marc Napp said Wednesday during a news conference.
THE LARGER TREND
As the coronavirus continues to spread, more businesses and governments are requiring vaccinations for their workers.
Microsoft announced this week its employees would need to be fully vaccinated to return to work in-person. Pfizer said it will require its U.S. employees to get vaccinated or be tested weekly.
Starting Sept. 13, New York City will require customers and staff of indoor businesses to show proof of vaccination, and Los Angeles city lawmakers are considering a similar move.
“I want you to imagine the notion that because someone’s vaccinated, they can do all the amazing things that are available in this city. This is a miraculous place literally full of wonders. And, if you’re vaccinated, all that’s going to open up to you. You’ll have the key. You can open the door,” said NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio in a news conference. “But if you’re unvaccinated, unfortunately, you will not be able to participate in many things. That’s the point we’re trying to get across.”