A year later: University Hospital nurse manager glad she was first in region to get COVID vaccine

A little more than a year ago, University Hospital nurse manager Kimberly Tucker, M.S.N., R.N., became the first person in the region to receive a vaccine against COVID-19. Since then, she has received a second shot and a booster to help protect her, her family and her patients from the novel coronavirus that has been responsible for more than 800,000 deaths in the United States.

“I feel like it was the right thing to do and I’m very proud of myself for taking the step to do it,” Tucker said on the first anniversary of her first shot. “I’m glad I did it.”

Following the vaccination of healthcare and other frontline workers beginning in December 2020, USA Health began giving the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to other groups as they were approved by the Alabama Department of Public Health. To date, more than 100,000 vaccine doses have been administered to people along the Alabama Gulf Coast by USA Health.

As new variants of COVID-19 emerge, USA Health leaders encourage staff members and everyone who qualifies to get vaccinated against the virus. To schedule a Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine or booster, go to c19vaccine.southalabama.edu.

With people expected to gather in groups during the holidays, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends individuals take these precautions:

• Get a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as you can. If you’re eligible for a booster shot, get one now.
• Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth in indoor public places.
• Whenever possible, stay 6 feet apart from people who don’t live with you.
• Avoid crowds and poorly ventilated indoor spaces.
• Consider self-testing before indoor gatherings. If you are sick or have symptoms, don’t go.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use hand sanitizer if soap and water aren’t available.