MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — Alabama's death toll from the new coronavirus outbreak has risen to three.
The Alabama Department of Public Health is reporting that one person each has died in Lauderdale and Madison counties.
That's in addition to a previously reported death in Jackson County.
All the counties where deaths have occurred are located in north Alabama. Gov. Kay Ivey has shut down schools for the rest of the academic year, limited gatherings and could announce additional measures Friday.
At least 538 cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in the state through limited testing.
Most people recover, but the disease can be worse for older adults and people with existing health problems.