Abilene Health Director Has Coronavirus; Says the City Has Flattened the Curve

ABILENE, TX – Even as the number of cases continues to climb in Abilene, the Health Services Director Annette Lerma believes the city has flattened the curve. Lerma confirmed she was one of the positive cases that have been reported.

"I was a COVID patient and I don't mind saying that," said Lerma.

According to KTXS, the city has confirmed 378 cases, with 137 recovered, and only 4 currently hospitalized. The health department reported 22 new cases of COVID-19 in Taylor County.

"I would argue we have flattened the curve even though the infection rate continues to rise," said Lerma. "Flatten the curve means you're able to contain it well enough where you don't overrun your hospitals."

When asked about the New York Times report that identified the COVID-19 growth rate as the fourth highest in the nation, Lerma states it is because Abilene tested more people than other communities.

"Because of that we're finding those asymptomatic transmissions," said Lerma.

Several groups have had a large number of positives, including the Abilene Fire Department with 49 cases and AbiMar foods with 52 cases. The Abilene State Supported Living Center is currently waiting for results of nearly 100 tests.

The city monitoring non-compliance complaints coming in from some AbiMar employees who say the company is not practicing social distancing. 

"We're doing our best to keep tabs and check in with them," said Lerma.