COVID cases stay at zero
By Donnie A. Lucas
For the fourth week in a row, no new cases of COVID-19 were recorded at the three Albany testing sites last week, with the last positive case reported a month ago.
A total of just three tests were administered during the week of April 25-29, which is one test fewer than the previous week.
There were two hospitalized cases in Trauma Service Area D which includes Abilene and Brownwood hospitals, the same as the number of hospitalized cases the prior week.
While COVID numbers are on the rise due to a new variant in certain parts of the country, locally they have have continued to be low.
“Shackelford County currently is experiencing low levels of COVID cases, according to the CDC and local reports,” said Claire Ware, nurse practitioner at the Shackelford County Health Clinic. “We recommend continuing basic precautions such as handwashing and staying up-to-date with COVID vaccinations. If you develop symptoms or are exposed to someone who tested positive, you should get a COVID test as soon as possible.”
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, the EMS station, and Resource Care Community Health Center.
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 continue to have access to at-home COVID tests free of charge.Anyone interested can go online: www.COVIDtests.gov.
Despite the nationwide decline in the number of COVID-19 cases and hospitalization for most parts of the country, the CDC recommends all eligible citizens get vaccinated the series of two vaccines and the follow-up booster.
Anyone experiencing COVID-19 symptoms can make an appointment to be tested at one of the three testing sites in Albany.
Free COVID-19 testing is offered the Shackelford County EMS Station. Call 325-762-3313 to schedule an appointment.
The Shackelford County Health Clinic (325-762-3661) and ResourceCare Community Health Center (325-762-2447) both offer testing and vaccines, including boosters, by appointment.
Children ages 5-17 can receive the vaccine and a booster, but only the Pfizer vaccine is currently approved for that age group and must be obtained in Abilene.
