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.

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Should I be concerned about getting COVID-19 from products or packages shipping from China or other parts of the world?

There is ongoing research about how long the virus that causes COVID-19 can live on surfaces such as cardboard, plastic, stainless steel, and copper. There is still no indication that COVID-19 illness can be contracted from mail or packages. Spread is still considered to be most likely person to person. However, to provide an extra measure of sanitization, you can wipe off packages with disinfectants before you bring them in your house. You should still wash your hands after opening/handling packages. It is also important to continue to clean high touch surfaces such as counters, light switches, and door knobs regularly.