The number of new COVID-19 cases has risen sharply by 25% in the past week, with a total of 10,000 new infections reported. The spike in cases has prompted authorities to implement stricter measures, including mandatory mask-wearing in public spaces and limits on social gatherings to no more than 10 people. Health officials are urging the public to follow safety guidelines to curb the spread of the virus. Additionally, the government has allocated $5 million in funding for vaccine distribution efforts to accelerate the vaccination rollout and reach the target of inoculating 70% of the population by the end of the year.