DSHS count shows no active cases
By Donnie A. Lucas
For the first time in over six weeks, no currently active cases of the COVID-19 coronavirus were reported as of Monday, according to county judge Robert Skelton.
According to a report Skelton received Monday from the regional office of the Texas State Health Services, a total of 16 positive cases have been reported for Shackelford County but currently were all recovered, with no active cases.
The DSHS was showing a total of 95 tests administered to county residents since the pandemic begin in March.
“That is, of course, very good news for our county,” the judge said. “We just ask that people continue to be cautious and help contain the spread of the virus because things could change quickly.”
All of the cases in the county have been reported as “recovered,” with no deaths indicated.
The health department report on Monday did indicate two additional cases since last Wednesday, but both were listed as recovered. There is a delay in reporting for some cases if county residents are tested in other counties, but the case count does eventually get attributed to the county in which a person resides.
Albany mayor Susan Montgomery said she is very happy with this week’s report.
“This is the first time in six weeks that we have not have any active cases,” she said. “This is great, and we have a lot of positive indications that we can do things and still hold the virus at bay.”
The mayor commended the ResourceCare Day Camp, along with the community-wide Vacation Bible School and this week’s cheer camp, as good examples of holding organized gatherings with safety precautions in place.
“I’m so proud of those who have planned these events with the safety of the attendees at the forefront,” the mayor said. “I’m more optimistic about seeing school and sports opening up again soon based on how well these recent large events have turned out.”
She asked that residents be considerate of others and act responsibly by wearing face coverings, observing social distancing, and washing hands regularly.
“Each of us can make a big difference by doing our part,” Montgomery said. “We have a lot to be thankful for living in a small community that affords us the opportunity to move forward, but it takes everyone helping.”
