COVID numbers continue to fall
By Donnie A. Lucas
The number of positive COVID-19 cases tested locally has continued to fall over the last two weeks, with just three positive cases last week and four the week before.
The three local testing sites reported a combined total of three positive test results from the 17 tests administered during the week of March 7-11, and four positive results out of 17 tests given the week of Feb. 28 through March 4.
According to the weekly report issued by county judge Bob Skelton, the hospitalized cases in Trauma Service Area D, which includes Abilene and Brownwood hospitals, dropped significantly to 11 patients at the time of the report on Monday.
Testing continues to be available locally at the Shackelford County Health Clinic, the EMS station and ResourceCare Community Health Center.
The total 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 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 at 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.
Currently, immunization shots and boosters are offered without cost as part of a federal program.
Children ages 5-17 can now receive the vaccine and a booster, but only the Pfizer vaccine is currently approved for that age group and must be obtained in Abilene.
