Mercy Joplin staff first to receive COVID-19 in town

As Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine is being rolled out nationwide, several members of Mercy Joplin’s staff got vaccinated Tuesday morning.

In all, six doses were administered at Mercy, including to Dr. Eden Esguerra, an infectious disease specialist; Dr. William Craig, a cardiologist; Dr. Lydia Espinoza-Morales, a hospitalist; Judy Russell, a nurse practitioner; Donna Stokes, infection preventionist; and Kevin Manning, chief nursing officer.

“Mercy thanks our co-workers who are the first in this community to receive the vaccine for setting the example that it is safe and effective,” said Jeremy Drinkwitz, president of Mercy Hospital Joplin. “This is a step we should all take to bring an end to this pandemic. Still, we know it will take time for the vaccine to protect everyone, so please continue to mask, social distance, wash your hands frequently, and, if you haven’t already, get a flu shot.”

However, it could be months before the vaccine is available to the public.