Governor Kay Ivey on Wednesday issued her twenty-sixth supplemental emergency proclamation transitioning the state from an amended Safer at Home Order to a new Safer Apart Order, the third phase of COVID-19 pandemic health orders. Masks will no longer be mandated statewide, but individuals are strongly encouraged to wear a mask or other facial covering when in public and in close contact with other people. This order goes into effect at 5 p.m. on Friday, April 9, 2021 and extends until 5 p.m. on Wednesday, May 5, 2021.

Ask a COVID-19 Question

Will vodka or other hard alcohols work as disinfectants against the coronavirus? What about vinegar?

Vodka, or other hard alcohols, are not recommended for disinfecting surfaces. Furthermore, there is no evidence that vinegar is effective against coronavirus. It would be best to use diluted bleach solutions (1/3 cup for every gallon of water), alcohol-based cleaners with 70% alcohol, or most EPA-registered disinfectants. Surfaces should also be cleaned prior to disinfecting them. (If they are visibly dirty, the disinfectant will be less effective.) The CDC has guidance on how best to clean surfaces.

Drafted 17 March 2020