NEW YORK (AP) – Nine out of 10 city workers in New York City have been vaccinated against COVID-19 as the deadline to do so approaches, reports Mayor Bill de Blasio.
De Blasio tweeted Saturday night that 91% of city employees have received the vaccine, a marked increase from 83% on Friday night.
According to a city requirement, those who have not received a dose of the vaccine will be suspended without pay starting Monday, increasing the possibility of a shortage of police, fire and paramedics. New York has more than 300,000 workers.
The Police Department, which employs some 36,000 officers and about 19,000 civilian workers, reported a vaccination rate of 84% as of Sunday morning, while the Fire Department announced that day in the afternoon that 80% of its workers were vaccinated: 75% of firefighters, 87% of paramedics and 90% of civilian employees.
Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro denied reports that some stations have been closed due to staff shortages.
“The department has not closed any stations,” Nigro said in a statement released Sunday morning. “Irresponsible absences for false illnesses of some of our members are creating a risk for New Yorkers and their fellow firefighters. They need to go back to work or face the consequences of their actions. “
City officials have weighed various measures to deal with an anticipated shortage of items starting Monday.
The Fire Department has said it was prepared to shut down up to 20% of its companies and have 20% fewer ambulances on duty, in addition to changing shifts, canceling vacations and using outside paramedics to make up for understaffing.
De Blasio indicated that the health department will begin to operate in 12-hour shifts, unlike the usual 8-hour shifts, and will begin to work on Sundays to prevent garbage from accumulating.
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