3 more COVID cases reported

By Donnie A. Lucas

Following a month-long reprieve from COVID-19 cases, six positive cases have been reported over the last two weeks.

County Judge Bob Skelton reported Monday that three positive results were reported to him for the week of May 9-13. He also reported three positives the prior week of May 2-6.

A total of eight tests were administered each week.

Recently, the number of ­COVID-19 cases has been on the rise across the nation after most areas reported significant decreases in positive results. The new variant of the virus is reported to be more contagious but resulting in milder symptoms not requiring the level of hospitalization as with previous strains.

The CDC has approved  administering a second booster dose of Moderna to patients meeting certain criteria including age limits and medical conditions.

Testing continues to be available locally at the Shackelford County Health Clinic and Resource Care Community Health Center. The EMS Station is not currently performing tests, according to Skelton.

The total number of tests or positives does not include any information about tests administered outside Albany or by use of home tests, which according to officials could be a significant number.

Residents have access to at-home COVID tests free of charge. Anyone interested can go online: www.COVIDtests.gov.

The CDC recommends that all eligible citizens get vaccinated with the series of two vaccines and the follow-up booster.

Anyone experiencing symptoms can be tested in Albany at the Shackelford County Health Clinic (325-762-3661) or ResourceCare (325-762-2447) by calling for an appointment.