HUNTSVILLE, Ala. —
As of Tuesday, March 10, 2020, there are no confirmed cases of coronavirus, or COVID-19, in Alabama.
But, the state says it's likely only a matter of time. The Department of Public Health is prepping for potential outbreaks.
The Alabama Department of Health, or ADPH, held a News Conference to update the public on the status of coronoavirus in the state.
Eric Mackey, Alabama Superintendent of Education, says during the conference, “We have no confirmed cases in schools in Alabama.”
Alabama has no confirmed Covid-19 cases. But, that doesn't mean we’re in the clear.
Eric Mackey adds, “We have plans, but until a particular case comes to us, we don’t know how strong of a response we’re going to have to have.”
Some of those plans are starting in the school system. Including the decision to suspend travel overseas by Alabama schools. Eric Mackey explains, “We’ve encouraged them to cancel trips that are going overseas over the next several weeks.”
Schools are not to cancel activities or suspend classes without contacting the ADPH. There have been around 20 coronavirus tests conducted by the Alabama Department of Public Health so far. Dr. Scott Harris, Alabama State Health Officer, says during the conference, "all have been negative."
The ADPH is also monitoring at-risk citizens. More than 100 travelers may have been exposed. Most are thought not to be infected at this point.
Health officials are urging parents and teachers to encourage good habits to prevent the spread of illness.
Dr. Scott Harris says, “Just remember good cough etiquette, good hand hygiene-- washing. Avoiding touching your face covering your cough and sneeze.”
The virus might be tougher to spot in children.
Brian Hastings, the Director of the Emergency Management Agency, says, “What we’ve seen in the younger population is they sometimes have the sniffles, a cold and they go about their business...”
Parents are urged to keep any sick students at home during this time to protect other students, staff and faculty. But one group could be a higher risk.
Hastings adds, “It’s really affecting the elderly. And the younger population has a lower mortality rate now. So, that’s favorable for our children, but it’s not for our vulnerable population.”
The Alabama Department of Public Health mentioned their plans to launch a webcast starting this Friday. It will be open to the public and will have tips and the latest updates on COVID-19 in Alabama.