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First cases reported in 4+ weeks

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Albany News

By Donnie A. Lucas

For the first time in about a month, three cases of COVID-19 were recorded at the three Albany testing sites last week, with a total of eight tests administered.

At least one of the new cases was reportedly of a student on the secondary campus of Albany ISD.

The three positive tests come on the heels of a quiet month for COVID-19 cases locally. Three of the last four weeks resulted in no new cases, with only one positive reported for the first week of April.

Recently, the number of ­COVID-19 cases has been on the rise across the nation after most areas reported significant decreases in cases. The new variant of the virus is reported to be more contagious but resulting in milder symptoms not requiring the level of hospitalization as with previous strains.

Judge Bob Skelton reported Monday that there were currently no reported cases of hospitalizations for Trauma Service Area D which includes hospitals in the Abilene area.

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 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, 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 to 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 with the series of two vaccines and the follow-up booster.

Anyone experiencing symptoms can make an appointment at one of the three Albany testing sites. Free testing is offered at the EMS Station. Call 325-762-3313 to schedule an appointment.