Updated 7-2-20 at 9:53 p.m.
CULLMAN, Ala. – Alabama added a record 1,162 cases of COVID-19 Wednesday, and the Alabama Department of Public health confirmed another death in Cullman County due to the disease. With the 4th of July weekend upon us, The Tribune reached out to Alabama State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris for his advice on how to stay safe.
“Be especially cautious in celebrating this July Fourth,” Harris said in an email. “COVID-19 cases throughout the state increased following the Memorial Day holiday, and we don’t want to repeat this pattern. In addition to the usual precautions about food and fireworks safety, we urge you to greatly limit the number of people at your festivities and to follow all COVID-19 prevention measures. This will help protect vulnerable people in your family and community.”
To help prevent transmission of the virus, Harris said:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water is unavailable, use hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Stay at least 6 feet apart from other people from other households.
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Wear a cloth face covering when you go out in public and are around people from other households.
“Another special recommendation for Independence Day parties is to avoid buffet-style serving arrangements that include shared serving utensils,” he said. “Use disposable utensils, cups and plates instead. Don’t let up your guard- put safety first this holiday weekend.”
Thursday COVID-19 update from the Alabama Department of Public Health
Total confirmed cases in AL: 39,604 (+1,162 since yesterday)
Probable cases in AL: 507
Total confirmed deaths in AL: 961 (+14 since yesterday)
Probable deaths in AL: 24
Total confirmed cases in Cullman Co.: 411 (+11 since yesterday)
Probable cases in Cullman Co.: 11
Total confirmed deaths in Cullman Co.: 4 (+1 since yesterday)
Probable deaths in Cullman Co.: 0
Total tested in Cullman Co.: 6,066
Total tested in the last 14 days in Cullman Co.: 1,611
Cases in the last 14 days in Cullman Co.: 113
Total tested in Alabama: 419,221
Cases in the last 14 days in Alabama: 11,091
Total tested in the last 14 days in Alabama: 110,844
Currently hospitalized in Alabama: 843
Cumulative no. of hospitalizations in Alabama: 2,835
Presumed recoveries in Alabama (reported weekly): 22,082
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