COVID numbers creep back up
By Donnie A. Lucas
After a week of fewer positive test results just before Christmas, the number of COVID-19 cases rose again last week, according to a report issued by Shackelford County judge Robert Skelton on Monday.
For the week of Dec. 27-31, a total of 52 COVID-19 tests were administered at the local testing sites, with 18 positive cases reported.
Only five positive cases were reported for the week of Dec. 20-24 out of the 25 tests administered.
Skelton’s report included tests administered at the Shackelford County Health Clinic, ResourceCare Health Center and the Shackelford County EMS station.
While the number of positive cases reported last week increased over the prior week, considerably fewer positive cases were reported compared to the first three weeks of December.
The report issued by Skelton also reported that 54 lab-confirmed cases of COVID-19 patients were hospitalized in Trauma Service Area D that includes Abilene, Brownwood, and the surrounding rural area. Eleven of the patients required care in an ICU.
There were just 37 individuals requiring hospitalization the prior week, with only eight in ICU.
The COVID-19 website posted by the Texas Department of State Health Services is reporting a total number of positive cases in Shackelford County since the start of the pandemic at 577. The total number of deaths rose to nine in the county as of Jan. 4.
The Shackelford County Health Clinic reported that Moderna booster shots continue to be administered and are available. The CDC has recommended that all fully vaccinated adults age 18 years or older obtain the booster.
Free COVID-19 testing is offered at the Shackelford County EMS Station. Call 325-762-3313 during office hours to schedule an appointment.
The Shackelford County Health Clinic (325-762-3661) and ResourceCare Community Health Center (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 that covers the cost.
Children ages 5-17 can now receive the vaccine, but only the Pfizer vaccine is currently approved for that age group and must be obtained in Abilene.
