Alabama Coronavirus: Governor Issues Statewide Health Order

Governor Kay Ivey and the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) issued a statewide health order Thursday to aid in Alabama’s efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus. A previous health order applied to only five counties surrounding Jefferson County, which currently has the most cases of COVID-19.

“Despite our best efforts, the threat of the COVID-19 virus continues to spread and, unfortunately, we have not yet reached peak impact," Governor Kay Ivey said.

As of Thursday morning, 68 people have tested positive for the coronavirus in Alabama.

According to state officials, this latest health order is to remain in effect through April 5 and requires that:

• All gatherings of 25 persons or more, or gatherings of any size that cannot maintain a consistent six-foot distance between persons, are prohibited. This order shall apply to all gatherings, events or activities that bring 25 or more persons in a single room or single space at the same time.

• Any restaurant, bar, brewery or similar establishments shall not permit on-premise consumption of food or drink. Governor Ivey said she continues to encourage patrons to visit their local eateries for take-out or delivery provided the social distancing protocols include maintaining a consistent six-foot distance between persons are followed.

• All beaches will be closed effective Thursday at 5 p.m. For clarification, the term “beach” means the sandy shoreline area abutting the Gulf of Mexico, whether privately or publicly owned, including beach access points.

• Preschools and childcare centers will be closed effective at close of school or business Thursday. This shall not apply to licensed childcare centers that provide services exclusively to employees with: state and local governments, first responders (including EMS and fire services), law enforcement, hospitals, nursing home/long term care facilities (including assisted living and specialty care assisted living facilities), end stage renal disease treatment centers, pharmacies and grocery stores.

• Effective immediately, all hospitals and nursing home/long term care facilities (including assisted living and specialty care assisted living facilities) shall prohibit visitation of all visitors and non-essential health care personnel, except for certain compassionate care situations such as maternity and end-of-life.

• All elective dental and medical procedures shall be delayed, effective immediately.

“We understand that the health orders issued will be a hardship on Alabamians. We must, first and foremost, protect the health and safety of our citizens," State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris said. "This decision has not been made lightly and will help to prevent the spread of this virus.”

News conference held Thursday announcing the new statewide health order:

Don't miss the latest coronavirus updates from health and government officials in Alabama. Sign up for Patch news alerts and newsletters for what you need to know daily.