The United States officially marked half a million deaths from the coronavirus, a grim tally that is the highest of any nation in the world. In terms of death rate from the virus, the U.K. has the highest deaths per capita in the world with the U.S. at the fifth highest. Globally and in the United States, the rate of infections and deaths are falling to levels not seen since last Fall. 

Two new vaccine studies from the U.K. offer hope. Using real world data, one Scotland study showed that Pfizer’s vaccine reduced virus-related hospitalizations by up to 85% after just the first dose, while AstraZeneca’s new vaccine reduced hospitalizations by 94%. A study of healthcare workers in England showed that the Pfizer vaccine reduced infections by 70% after the first dose and 85% after the second dose. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson outlined his plan to reopen schools in the U.K. in 2 weeks but bars and restaurants would remain shut. In a statement to the House of Commons, Johnson said, “We’re setting out on what I hope is a one-way journey to freedom.” In other international Covid-related news, the first vaccines have reached the occupied territory of Gazaafter the Israeli government finally allowed doses after ensuring its own citizens were vaccinated. Gaza so far has been given only 22,000 vaccines for a population of 2 million. 

Back here in the United States, President Joe Biden announced on Monday that he would adjust the rules of the Paycheck Protection Program to better include very small businesses to access forgivable government loans. And, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo’s role in nursing home deaths continues to remain a focus of investigation and outrage. Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortezof New York has called for a full investigation into Cuomo’s actions. 

AOC has also continued her social-media based fundraising efforts toward a state that is geographically far removed. Her campaign to raise funds for Texans struggling with devastating winter conditions and resulting man-made electricity and water disasters has resulted in $5 million of giving and the number keeps growing. In a tweet announcing the dollars raised, she wrote, “Charity can’t replace policy, but solidarity is how we’ll face climate change and build a better world.” A third of Texas residents are still facing disrupted water supplies as per a new report. Meanwhile those residents who were lucky enough to have their power remain uninterrupted are now facing sky-high bills of thousands of dollars because of spikes in wholesale prices. Houston mayor Sylvester Turner in an