Positive COVID cases continue to decline

By Donnie Lucas

The number of positive COVID-19 cases fell last week to the lowest number in weeks, with only five new cases reported.

A total of 19 tests were administered during the period of Oct. 25-29 at the three local testing locations.

Likewise, Lisa Russell, the Albany ISD nurse, said that there was just one positive case reported to her, which was a student at the junior/senior high campus.

The Shackelford County Medical Clinic conducted six tests on Monday with no positive cases for Shackelford County residents.

Testing was also conducted at the Resource Care Community Health Center and the Shackelford County EMS station.

Both of the clinics offer both testing and ­COVID-19 vaccinations, while the EMS station only conducts testing. Currently, only the Moderna vaccine for adults is available locally.

Booster doses of the Moderna, which is one-half of the original dose, are available at the hospital district clinic. The booster is available to persons 65 years of age or older, or a person ages 18-64 who is part of a risk group. 

Children 12-17 must still travel to Abilene or somewhere administering the Pfizer children’s dosage to be vaccinated, although it is anticipated that children’s doses could be available locally in the near future.

Testing at the Shackelford County EMS is free of charge with an appointment. Call 325-762-3313 to schedule a time during regular office hours.

Both testing and vaccines are available by appointment at the Shackelford County Health Clinic (325-762-3661) and ResourceCare (325-762-2447).