The U.S. death toll from the COVID-19 pandemic has now topped 127,000 people.The epicenter has shifted to the West and South, where cases have ballooned to record highs. Amna Nawaz has our report.California's COVID response was once called a miracle, for quickly stemming virus spread.But the state today took steps to move back into lockdown after new cases spiked almost 80 percent in the last two weeks.The bottom line is, the spread of this virus continues at a rate that is particularly concerning.Fourth of July weekend has raised a lot of concern from our health officials.We want to again remind each and every one of you that, if we want to be independent from COVID-19, we have to be much more vigilant.California is not alone. A majority of states in the country are now reporting surges in infections.Yesterday, the U.S. recorded more than 47,000 new cases, the nation's highest single-day spike in the pandemic so far.To slow virus spread, at least 14 states are now moving to pause or reverse plans to reopen their economies.But the majority of states are still moving ahead on lifting restrictions, despite the rise in infections.Currently, only 17 states and the District of Columbia have issued mask mandates.And Texas is not one of them. In fact, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick said in a FOX News interview last nightthat he doesn't need any advice from Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation's top infectious disease expert.
