The Delta variant has underscored that this pandemic is not over, but several states have ceased or slowed reporting COVID-19 case and death data. These lapses in data could make it difficult for citizens, state officials, and federal policymakers to understand how lifted restrictions, vaccination efforts, or reinstated mask mandates are impacting this new phase of the virus.
Over the last month or so, several states have reduced the frequency at which they report. Most states are still reporting cases and deaths, but the frequency and type of reporting have changed from earlier in the pandemic.
