COVID numbers drop in last week
By Donnie A. Lucas
The number of new COVID-19 cases reported last week dropped to five positive tests, compared to 18 reported the previous week based on information provided by Albany’s two health clinics.
The weekly report by county judge Bob Skelton issued Tuesday reported five positive test results out of 22 tests administered at the two local clinics for the period of Aug. 29 through Sept. 2.
The use of home testing has increased after tests were made readily available, making it unclear as to the actual number of local cases.
The number of cases requiring hospitalization in Trauma Service Area D, which includes Abilene area hospitals, was 19 confirmed COVID-19 patients, compared to 22 the previous week. No adult patient required ICU care, but there was one pediatric case in ICU.
The latest cases are thought to be the Omicron variant, which is reportedly more contagious than previous strains but has milder symptoms.
Testing continues to be available locally at the Shackelford County Health Clinic and ResourceCare 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.
Ordering through the free at-home test program was suspended on Friday, Sept. 2, at least temporarily, because Congress hasn’t provided additional funding to replenish the nation’s stockpile of tests.
The CDC continues to recommend all eligible citizens get vaccinated with the series of two vaccines and the follow-up boosters.
Anyone experiencing COVID-19 symptoms can make an appointment to be tested at one of the two testing sites in Albany.
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.
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