County infection rate slows down

By Donnie A. Lucas

With only one new positive case of the COVID-19 coronavirus reported over the last week, local officials are pleased that the county infection rate has again slowed.

According to a report on Tuesday from the Texas Department of State Health Services, only one new positive case was reported last week, bringing the total number of confirmed to 17 since the pandemic reached the area in March.

The total number of tests administered to county residents was reported as a total of 104.

The report also noted that last week’s new case was also released from isolation on Aug. 3, meaning that the county was again without any active cases on the date of the report.

“These are pretty good numbers for us, especially considering recent events such as the ResourceCare Day Camp and the community-wide Vacation Bible School,” county judge Robert Skelton said on Tuesday. “Our next big test will come with the starting up of school again.”

Albany mayor Susan Montgomery echoed the judge’s comments.

“Things are looking good,” she said. “We have had a good two-week period with more activities opening back up.”

The mayor quickly reminded residents not to get too comfortable.

“We still need to be cautious and proactive to do the things that will keep the virus from spreading,” she said. “The only way that we are able to continue getting back to normal and moving forward is by keeping the coronavirus at bay.”

She commended residents for helping with containing the spread.

“We need to keep up the good work by protecting ourselves and others,” she said.

Montgomery noted that wearing face coverings, observing social distancing, and heeding hand washing guidelines will soon become even more critical with in-person school activities and classes starting again.