MT. VERNON, IL – As the new, highly contagious Delta variant of the coronavirus spurs another wave of infections throughout the U.S., SSM Health is again urging all eligible individuals to be vaccinated against COVID-19 as quickly as possible.

Despite broad availability of life-saving vaccines, new COVID-19 infections are rising due to the circulating Delta variant coupled with a low vaccination rate. In addition, the annual cold and influenza season is quickly approaching which may lead to a rapid rise in respiratory viral infections.

“These vaccines have been proven to be safe and effective at providing long-lasting immunity to COVID-19,” said Dr. Todd Shuman, MD, SSM Health Chief Medical Officer. “However, we haven’t yet reached a level of vaccination that provides herd immunity, which is why we’re continuing to see dangerous surges in many communities.”

Just seven months ago, SSM Health administered its first COVID-19 vaccine. Since then, the health system has vaccinated close to 240,000 employees and community members. SSM Health will now require all its nearly 40,000 employees, providers and volunteers to be fully vaccinated by the end of September – ahead of the cold/influenza season.

“As health care providers, we’ve seen the devastating impact of this disease first-hand,” said Dr. Shuman. “The fight against COVID-19 is not yet over. We must continue to be vigilant in doing everything we can to protect our team members, patients and communities.”

In announcing the move, SSM Health joins numerous health systems across the country in making the vaccine mandatory.

SSM Health team members can request an exemption for medical or religious reasons, which is consistent with the health ministry’s practice for other required vaccines.

To schedule a vaccine, please visit https://www.ssmhealth.com/coronavirus-updates.