World tops 250M COVID-19 cases, US travel ban ends, LA mandate begins

According to the latest numbers from Johns Hopkins University, the number of COVID-19 cases around the world has topped 250 million. The latest milestone comes just a week after world COVID-19 deaths topped 5 million. The United States accounts for just under 46.5 million world COVID-19 cases and over 750,000 deaths.

The milestone also comes as the United States fully reopened its borders with Mexico and Canada. The country also lifted restrictions on travel that covered most of Europe. Both moves were originally announced last month.

“I can’t even explain in my words how happy I am,” Jolly Dave said Monday. “I’m on cloud 9, I can say. So, here we are together.”

She was reunited with her boyfriend after the two spent nine months not able to see each other in person.

“Yes, because of the pandemic, all flights from India were restricted,” Nirmit Shelat said. “Because of travel restrictions I could not see her. But finally she made it here and we’ll have a good time.”

The U.S. Travel Association says the 28 European countries barred under the U.S. policy that just ended made up 37% of overseas visitors in 2019. According to data from travel and analytics firm Cirium, airline carriers are increasing flights between the United Kingdom and the U.S. by 21% this month over last month.

Also on Monday, people entering a wide variety of businesses in Los Angeles began having to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. The new rule, which covers businesses ranging from restaurants to shopping malls and theaters to nail and hair salons, was also announced last month.

Local coffee shop manager Matthew Cadena said the morning rush was mostly smooth. Only a handful of people saw the mandate as “nonsensical”.

“Most people are accommodating and understanding,” Cadena said.

Los Angeles is among a growing number of cities across the U.S. requiring people to show proof of vaccination to enter various types of businesses and venues. Other cities include New York City and San Francisco. However, SafePassLA applies to more types of businesses and other indoor locations, including museums and convention centers.