Mobile County’s confirmed COVID-19 case count climbed to 18 as of Thursday afternoon, according to the latest update from the Alabama Department of Public Health, as the coronavirus outbreak continued to spread across the state.
The state health agency reported that 4,082 COVID-19 tests had been conducted across Alabama as of 2 p.m. Thursday, with one confirmed death statewide. ADPH updates its county-by-county case totals daily on its website as new lab results come in from hospitals, private labs and the state’s own testing sites.
Mobile County’s rising tally reflects a trend playing out across south Alabama and the rest of the state, where health officials have urged residents to limit trips outside the home, avoid gatherings and practice social distancing to slow the virus’s spread. County and city leaders across the region have already closed non-essential businesses, restricted restaurant service to takeout and delivery, and postponed public events in an effort to reduce person-to-person contact.
Health officials have cautioned that confirmed case counts likely understate the true scope of community spread, since testing capacity remained limited in the early weeks of the outbreak and many people with mild symptoms were not being tested. ADPH has continued to work with hospitals and private laboratories to expand testing availability as supplies allow.
Residents who develop a fever, cough or shortness of breath are advised to call their health care provider before seeking in-person care, so that clinics and emergency rooms can take precautions to prevent further spread. Anyone with severe symptoms, including difficulty breathing, should seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Local officials say they will continue to provide updates as the Alabama Department of Public Health releases new figures, and they are urging Mobile County residents to stay informed through official state and county channels rather than relying on rumors or unverified reports circulating on social media.