Positive cases drop to zero for first time since summer
By Donnie A. Lucas
For the first time since last summer, there were no new cases of COVID-19 cases reported from the three local testing sites in Albany.
A total of 11 tests were administered with no positive results during March 14-18. There were just three positive cases the prior week of the 17 tests conducted.
According to the weekly report issued by county judge Bob Skelton, the hospitalized cases in Trauma Service Area D which includes Abilene and Brownwood hospitals dropped to just four patients, including two in ICU at the time of the report on Monday.
Testing continues to be available locally at the Shackelford County Health Clinic, the EMS station and ResourceCare Community Health Center.
The total 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: COVIDtests.gov.
Despite the nation-wide decline in the number of COVID-19 cases and hospitalization for most parts of the country, the CDC recommends all eligible citizens get vaccinated the series of two vaccines and the follow-up booster.
Anyone experiencing COVID-19 symptoms can make an appointment to be tested at one of the three testing sites in Albany.
Free COVID-19 testing is offered at the Shackelford County EMS Station. Call 325-762-3313 to schedule an appointment.
The Health Clinic (325-762-3661) and ResourceCare (325-762-2447) both offer testing and vaccines, including boosters, by appointment.
Currently, immunization shots and boosters are offered without cost as part of a federal program.
Children ages 5-17 can now receive the vaccine and a booster, but only the Pfizer vaccine is currently approved for that age group and must be obtained in Abilene.
