CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The Illinois Department of Public Health marks the one-year anniversary of the first COVID-19 vaccines administered in Illinois Wednesday.
On Dec. 15, 2020, approximately 450 doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine were administered to health care workers after being delivered to the state the day before.
“One year and 18 million doses later, the COVID-19 vaccine has saved countless lives across Illinois,” said Governor JB Pritzker in a statement.
“I am incredibly grateful for the scientists, researchers and public health professionals who made this historic effort possible, allowing us to reunite with loved ones, return to small businesses, and engage with our communities once again."
While the vaccination rate has slowed, approximately 71 percent of all Illinoisans have received at least one dose, 63 percent are fully vaccinated, and more than 30 percent have received a booster dose, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“The last year has been challenging for everyone and even now, marking the one-year anniversary of having the vaccine available, it’s still a reminder that we can’t let our guard down," said Dr. Victor Chan, medical director of the Peoria-based OSF HealthCare Saint Francis Medical Center's emergency services.
"The vast majority of patients we see that are being admitted to the hospital are, unfortunately, unvaccinated. I encourage everyone who is able to get vaccinated or receive a booster dose."
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