COVID numbers seem to be on rise

By Melinda L. Lucas

Although numbers from the Texas Department of State Health Services continue to lag with no new Shackelford County cases officially reported as of Monday and only three active, there has been a perceived rise in the local COVID case count over the past couple of weeks.

At least three new cases have been confirmed within the Albany ISD staff and student body this week, and it was announced Wednesday morning that 68 PCR tests given since Nov. 2 when the Shackelford County Health Clinic received its Abbott ID Now machine were showing 18 positive cases.

“I think most people across the country were anticipating that we would see numbers rise this time of year,” said Albany mayor Susan Montgomery. “But even though we may have expected it, all of us should re-double our efforts to make sure we’re doing everything we can to keep our community as safe as possible in this situation.”

Montgomery urged local residents to be very diligent about social distancing, wearing face masks when needed, and especially washing hands frequently.

“And if you have been or think you might have been compromised, please don’t put yourself in a situation where you could potentially infect others,” she said. “Take it upon yourself to be a responsible citizen.”

County judge Robert Skelton said Tuesday that officially, over 90 individuals in Shackelford County have tested positive since last spring, although many others have been affected by the positive cases.

“Most have already recovered, but we must continue to take this virus seriously and exercise personal responsibility,” he said. “Limit your exposure as much as you can control.”