Updated March 13, 5:25 p.m.: The second confirmed case of COVID-19 in Alabama has been reported in Jefferson County, according to the Alabama Department of Public Health. Gov. Kay Ivey also declared a state of emergency for Alabama around 5 p.m. and announced all K-12 schools will close for two weeks starting Wednesday, March 18.
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey announced today (March 13) that Alabama has its first confirmed COVID-19 case.
The case is in Montgomery County and State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris said the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) learned of the positive test at 8 a.m. this morning.
Harris said the person was exposed during an out-of-state trip.
“We have already contacted this person’s physician and the physician has notified that patient,” Harris said. “Our understanding at this time is that the patient felt unwell upon returning home and has self-isolated since returning home.”
Investigating possible contacts
Harris said epidemiologists were reaching out to the individual to see if other contacts need to be investigated. Harris also said that despite rumors on social media, it was only today that Alabama has identified a positive test.
Harris said Ivey has been helpful and supportive in the effort to respond to COVID-19.
Ivey also issued a statement this morning on Twitter:
“I have closely monitored the rapidly changing events regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19). As a state, we have taken precautionary measures and made preparations in the case that the virus would eventually reach our state,” Ivey said. “Alabamians should not be fearful, but instead, use commonsense to watch out for themselves and others.”
Montgomery County officials addressed the coronavirus case in a live press conference Friday (March 13).
Use credible information sources
Montgomery County Commissioner Ronda Walker advised people to use the CDC and other credible sources for information. She warned Alabamians not to use “your cousin’s Facebook post” as a source of information.
Officials from Baptist Health System and Jackson Hospital, both in Montgomery County, said they were managing their supply chain to make sure they had the necessary supplies and equipment. They advised people to stay at home if they’re sick and to call ahead if they feel they need medical care.
Good hygiene for prevention
They also reminded people of the importance of good hygiene practices, including:
- handwashing with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing;
- using alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available;
- avoiding sharing personal household items like cups, dishes and towels;
- cleaning “high-touch” surfaces like tabletops, doorknobs, toilets, and counters daily.
Officials also recommended cleaning phones and electronics, which are frequently touched, and thinking about other high-touch surfaces in public places, like gas pumps, for example.
School continues for PreK-12
In an earlier press conference, Harris said he had been in touch with many groups, including state school superintendent Eric Mackey and said ADPH has no specific recommendations on how local schools should respond to this first confirmed case.
“Dr. Mackey has an excellent place in place for dealing with cases of coronavirus,” Harris said. While Harris said it’s prudent to avoid “large gatherings of people, field trips, etc.,” he said it’s appropriate for school itself to continue for Alabama students.
The full text of Gov. Ivey’s statement reads:
“Along with my fellow Alabamians, I have closely monitored the rapidly changing events regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19). As a state, we have taken precautionary measures and made preparations in the case that the virus would eventually reach our state. As I have emphasized time and again, the safety and health of Alabamians is paramount.
Alabamians are smart and savvy, and I know they will continue taking appropriate precautions to prevent the spread to themselves or others. We have taken a calm and collected approach in preparation for this first confirmed case, and we need to remember that calm and steady wins the race. Alabamians should not be fearful, but instead, use commonsense to watch out for themselves and others. We will remain engaged on the matter and continue prioritizing the health and wellbeing of all Alabamians.
I am grateful to the work of State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris, as well as the members of my Coronavirus Task Force and countless individuals who are also watching and working on this situation closely.”
The Alabama Baptist/TAB Media is following this story. This post will be updated.
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