Renewing calls to get vaccinated amid a surge in COVID cases, US President Joe Biden reveals the United States is bracing for a challenging next few weeks

The president expressed sympathy, acknowledging that many Americans are tired of hearing about the pandemic – but as many of us looked to a brighter year in 2022 – being COVID safe like wearing a mask and social distancing seemed to be here to stay. 

Joe Biden revealed that COVID-19 cases were rising even at the White House as he urged unvaccinated Americans to get the jab – and others to get booster shots.

Biden’s remarks come as his administration has yet to offer comprehensive details about his plan to distribute half a billion tests for free – using a website. 

The administration is still in the procurement process, an official said, which decides which companies will supply the tests.

Health experts have warned that the nationwide shortage of rapid at-home tests is coming during a critical period for testing as the Omicron variant disrupts daily life.

Biden also had told reporters earlier Monday that he would address the change in the CDC’s isolation guidelines 

Global omicron cases are soaring – with many nations seeing record breaking infections. 

The US is now reporting more than one million cases a day, as scientists and governments hope to reach the peak in omicron cases over coming weeks.

Doctors in the US, UK and Australia are expecting case numbers to surge even higher over the next fortnight, as testing sites come under unprecedented strain.

But for now – the world wants to move forward – with lockdowns off the cards in many nations. The US for now is relying on vaccinating as the weapon against the virus, while Australia which is breaking records with cases in their tens of thousands is doing much the same, ruling out lockdowns. – and as for Britain, the UK government is ruling out new restrictions, for now.