Arizona Republic: FEMA Disputes AZ Health Director's Allegations Of Worker Mistreatment

Published: Wednesday, March 31, 2021 - 12:36pm
Updated: Monday, April 19, 2021 - 11:37am
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The Arizona Department of Health Services added 733 new coronavirus cases along with 26 additional deaths March 31. State health officials say about 200 of those new infections are a result of residual reporting.

COVID-related hospitalizations did jump up a bit as of March 31, something that has rarely happened since a January surge. Intensive Care Unit (ICU) capacity remains at 84% overall.

The dispute between Arizona and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) continues to create friction as the state races to get as many people vaccinated as quickly as possible.

The state had initially rejected an offer from FEMA to set up a vaccination site in Pima County, saying it needs more vaccines, not help with vaccination sites. The decision shocked many, including leaders in Pima County. That led the state to reverse its position and allow FEMA to set up a site.

To hear more about the situation, The Show spoke with Stephanie Innes, health care reporter with the Arizona Republic. 

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