Coronavirus cases worldwide surpassed 200 million on Aug. 4, according to a Reuters tally, as the more-infectious Delta variant threatens areas with low vaccination rates and strains healthcare systems.

President Joe Biden on July 29 urged local governments to pay people to get vaccinated against Covid-19, and set new rules requiring federal workers to provide proof of vaccination or face regular testing, mask mandates and travel restrictions.

Swiftly rising coronavirus cases across the United States and abroad fueled fears of a pandemic resurgence on July 19 and sent shockwaves through stock markets as the highly contagious Delta variant appeared to be taking hold.