Governor Ivey Establishes Coronavirus (COVID-19) Task Force

MONTGOMERY – Governor Kay Ivey on Friday announced the formation of a Coronavirus (COVID-19) Task Force of cabinet and state agency officials, as well as disease specialists in an abundance of caution. The task force held its initial discussion Friday morning.

“While there are no known cases in Alabama, I have gathered the experts in an effort to be as prepared as possible should the Coronavirus affect Alabama,” said Governor Kay Ivey. “The safety of Alabamians is paramount, and we will do everything we can to limit exposure to this illness. I appreciate the willingness of these individuals, from both the public and private sector, to serve as we do everything we can to mitigate risk for the people of Alabama and to keep the citizens of the state informed of our plans.”

The task force will discuss any developments and precautions on a routine basis and will make recommendations to the governor as necessary. Governor Ivey has designated Dr. Scott Harris to serve as chair of the task force and to lead any public announcements and directives.

The members are as follows:

Scott Harris, State Health Officer, Alabama Department of Public Health (Chair)
Governor Kay Ivey
Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth
President Pro Tempore Del Marsh
Speaker of the House Mac McCutcheon
Senate Majority Leader Greg Reed
House Majority Leader Nathaniel Ledbetter
Senate Minority Leader Bobby Singleton
House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels
Jeanne Marrazzo, Director of the Division of Infectious Diseases, UAB School of Medicine
John Vande Waa, Infectious Disease Specialist, University of South Alabama School of Medicine
Don Williamson, President/ CEO, Alabama Hospital Association
Brandon Farmer, President/ CEO, Alabama Nursing Home Association
Eric Mackey, State Superintendent, Alabama State Department of Education
Brian Hastings, Director, Alabama Emergency Management Agency
Hal Taylor, Secretary, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency
Greg Canfield, Secretary, Alabama Department of Commerce
Commissioner Nancy Buckner, Alabama Department of Human Resources

The Alabama Department of Public Health has issued guidance to hospitals and healthcare centers regarding testing for the virus and encourages Alabamians to take the standard protocol for cold and flu season.

“The risk of Coronavirus disease remains low in Alabama, and we have been working diligently to prepare for any cases that may occur,” said Dr. Scott Harris. “I am very grateful to Governor Ivey for convening this distinguished group of state leaders to help guide us in coordinating our efforts to safeguard the health of all Alabamians.”

For inquiries about the status of the Coronavirus or information regarding the Task Force, please contact Ryan Easterling, Health Media and Communications Division Director at the Alabama Department of Public Health at [email protected].

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