CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – The number of active COVID-19 cases in Montgomery County has more than doubled in the last week, edging toward previous outbreak spikes.
As of Jan. 3, the Tennessee Department of Health reported 2,371 active cases of COVID-19 in Montgomery County.
The week prior, on Monday, Dec. 28, we had 1,194 cases. On Dec. 19, we had 536 cases, according to data from the Clarksville-Montgomery County COVID-19 Dashboard Hub.
At this rate, the spike could top the two previous COVID outbreaks in Clarksville. Those were in January, when we had about 2,000 active cases, and in August, when we came close to 3,000.
The daily average rate for the seven-day period from Dec. 27 through Jan. 3 was 263 cases per day. Fourteen days prior to Dec. 27, the average number of cases was 117 per day.
COVID testing
On Tuesday, Montgomery County Government provided information on testing and antibody treatments.
Residents without health insurance can get a free COVID test Monday-Friday from 8-10 a.m. at the Montgomery County Health Department drive-through location at 350 Pageant Lane, according to the county news release.
The City of Clarksville and CH Consulting Solutions are providing drive-thru testing at Heritage Park, 1241 Peachers Mill Road, Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-4 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. CH bills the insurance company for the COVID-19 test. There is normally no cost but individuals should check with their insurance company to make sure it is covered. Those testing at Heritage Park are asked to remain in their vehicles.
Home COVID-19 tests are available through most pharmacies and large chain stores. However, retailers have had a difficult time keeping home tests in stock, and home tests are in limited supply online, the release said.
Monoclonal treatments, vaccines
Monoclonal treatments are available free at Walmart pharmacies through a coordinated distribution with THD. Visit walmart.com/covidmedication to find a participating pharmacy. Initial supply is limited, with more expected over the next few weeks.
According to TDH, while antivirals may help treat COVID-19, vaccination is the best approach to prevent infection. Tennesseans age 5 and older are encouraged to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, the release said. More information on vaccine locations, including available vaccine products, is available at vaccines.gov. The most updated guidance for returning to work and school can be found at tn.gov.
Correction: City of Clarksville and CH Consulting Solutions may not be free. There is normally no cost, but CH bills the individual’s insurance company. The article has been updated.