No word received on vaccine supply

By Melinda L. Lucas

This time last year, local residents were worried about catching the flu.

In 2021, following several weeks of holiday travel and family gatherings, the expected surge of COVID-19 cases is hitting Shackelford County, and local residents are beginning to look for options as the vaccine becomes available in other areas.

Jera Fairley with the Shackelford County Hospital District said Wednesday morning that the SCHD clinic applied in October to become a vaccination center, but there has been no information about when a vaccine will be received locally.

County citizens, especially those over 65 or with health conditions, should contact their primary physician if they are interested in receiving the vaccine.

Although there do appear to be some courses of action in surrounding areas, Fairley did say that Zac Glowczwski of the Taylor County Health Department had informed her that their agency is “only authorized to administer the vaccine to Taylor County residents.” He asked that providers in Shackelford County instruct their patients to call the Department of State Health Services Region 2/3 office at 817-264-4500.

At least 28 positive COVID tests have been recorded by local providers since Dec. 28.