coronavirus

Mission Accomplished: U.S. Space & Rocket Center Reaches Fundraising Goal

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville is the state’s top paid tourist attraction. But the center said it faced possible closure later this year if it couldn’t raise enough money to keep its doors open. A GoFundMe campaign to raise $1.5 million has exceeded its goal.  Boeing donated $500,000 and Huntsville technology company SAIC chipped in $250,000 on…

Local Schools Implement Safety Protocols

We are approaching the start of school for students across our area, and many school districts are taking different approaches. Pike Road Elementary is hosting a summer camp this week that gives us a look at the protocols in place for a safe return to the classroom.  Pike Road is offering traditional in-person schooling, all virtual, or a blended model…

Lee County Commissioner Dies from COVID-19

Lee County Commissioner Johnny Lawrence died Friday after battling COVID-19 for several weeks. Montgomery County’s Facebook page says Mr. Lawrence ‘truly had a love for others. He spent much of his life serving, first as a Firefighter and then as County Commissioner.’ You’re asked to honor Lawrence by continuing to wear your mask, social distance and washing your hands. We…

Alabama COVID-19 Testing Results Turnaround Now Averaging Seven Days

MONTGOMERY, Ala.- Health officials in Alabama say a surge in Coronavirus cases has overwhelmed Alabama’s ability to provide test results within the expected 2- to 3-day turnaround. The Alabama Department of Public Health says the current turnaround time for most COVID-19 testing performed in Alabama by commercial laboratories and the state laboratory is now averaging about 7 days. The department…

Dr. Fauci: 250,000 People Have Registered to Take Part in Experimental COVID-19 Vaccine Trials

Dr. Anthony Fauci testified says 250,000 people have registered on a National Institutes of Heath website to take part in experimental vaccine trials. The study of the first vaccine involving 30,000 people began this week. The U.S. government plans to launch studies of additional vaccines every month through the fall. Trials are pivotal for establishing the safety and effectiveness of…

Medical Breakthroughs: Blood clots & COVID + Detecting Alzheimer’s young + Dementia related to your gums

Women who are pregnant or taking estrogen with birth control or hormone replacement therapy may have a higher risk of blood clots from Coronavirus, according to a new article in the journal ‘Endocrinology.’ COVID-19 can result in blood clots forming in healthy people…and estrogen can increase the risk of clots. Researchers say more study is needed. Alzheimer’s disease risk factors…

Coronavirus and Children, UAB Pediatrician Gives Insight

As the start of the school year inches closer, there are still many unknowns about coronavirus and children. Alabama News Network spoke with Dr. GiGi Youngblood of Children’s Hospital of Alabama to get some answers. A portion of the interview can be read below. Q: When it comes to children and coronavirus, are children more or less susceptible to the virus? A:…

Mask Required in Alabama Schools & Colleges, Governor Ivey Extends Safer At Home Order Until August 31

When students return to school this fall, face mask or coverings will be required. The mandate comes as coronavirus cases continue to rise, and officials grabble with how to return student and teachers to class safely. Governor Kay Ivey has extended the Safer At Home Order until August 31st. The mandatory mask mandate will remain in effect until August 31st…

Medical Breakthroughs: Mental health amid COVID-19 + New detection for Alzheimer’s Disease

The COVID-19 pandemic is taking a toll on mental health. Researchers in Australia found higher psychological distress during the peak of that country’s outbreak – including acute depression, anxiety and stress. About half of the study’s participants reported moderate to extreme loneliness. A simple blood test may be capable of diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease years before the first symptoms appear. Researchers…

Macon County Offices Reopen After Closing Due to Multiple Employees Testing Positive for COVID-19

Acting Macon County Commission Chairman Miles Robinson Sr., Sheriff Andre Brunson and EMA / Homeland Security Director Frank H. Lee have deemed all Macon  County offices safe to reopen. The Courthouse and Annex were closed last week due to multiple employees testing positive for COVID-19. The Macon County Courthouse and Annex reopened Wednesday, July 29. All offices and court proceedings…