MONROE — December 22, 2020 was an important date in the COVID-19 pandemic response for SSM Health in Monroe: It was the day the first shipment of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine was received, as well as the day the first doses of the vaccine were administered to staff.

SSM Health Monroe Hospital Emergency Department nurse, Jen Chapman, was the recipient of that very first dose in Monroe. It was administered by fellow nurse, Lori Plenge. 

During the past year, SSM Health Monroe Clinic Medical Group has worked tirelessly to vaccinate as many community members as possible, hospital officials send in a statement in which they note that more than 41,000 vaccines have been administered thus far.

“There was so much excitement in the air for the vaccine and I was thankful I was able to get it when I did,” said Chapman, in a press release. “Being vaccinated is more than just protecting yourself; you are helping to protect your family and your community.”

To learn about vaccine opportunities at SSM Health Monroe Clinic Medical Group, including vaccines for those aged 5-11 and adult boosters, please visit monroeclinic.org/coronavirus.