Flu, COVID up during holidays
By Donnie A. Lucas
Positive cases of both COVID-19 and the influenza were on the rise during the week prior to Christmas but slowed last week.
A total of 16 positive COVID-19 results were reported for the week of Dec. 19-23, along with 22 positive tests for the flu.
According to the final weekly report of 2022 by outgoing county judge Bob Skelton, 16 positives were recorded out of 29 COVID-19 tests administered by the two local health clinics during the week prior to Christmas.
Only four of 21 tests were returned positive for the shorter three-day work week of Dec. 27-29. The Shackelford County Health Clinic had only three cases of the flu last week. The number of flu cases at ResourceCare was not available.
“We have been seeing high numbers of COVID-19 and influenza over the past couple of weeks,” nurse practitioner Claire Ware said prior to the Christmas break. “It is important to get tested in order to identify which virus is causing the illness because they are treated with different antiviral medications.”
She noted that isolation precautions also differ for the two viruses.
“Symptom management with over-the-counter medications also help, along with adequate rest and hydration,” she said. “COVID has mimicked flu in many cases with symptoms of fever, chills, and body aches, but others present with only mild symptoms including cough and GI upset.”
Both local clinics have plenty of flu vaccines on hand, as well as the new bivalent COVID booster.
Anyone interested in the newer COVID booster, which offers broader protection against two strains of the virus – the original strain and the more recent Omicron strain, should call one of the clinics to have their names placed on a vaccination list. Once the vial of antivirus for COVID is opened, it must be administered in a short time period, so both clinics are waiting until there are enough people on their lists to use up the vaccine when opened.
To make an appointment to be tested or receive a flu or COVID shot, call the Shackelford County Health Clinic at 325-762-3661 or ResourceCare at 325-762-2447.
