Coronavirus live updates: 4th Fort Benning case, other COVID-19 news for March 27
We’re tracking the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus in the Chattahoochee Valley. Check back for updates.
Soldier’s positive test is 4th coronavirus case related to Fort Benning
A Fort Benning soldier has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, officials said Thursday evening.
Martin Army Community Hospital received the positive test result from a Tricare network lab Thursday. Officials said the soldier has not traveled outside of the United States or had contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19. It’s the fourth case associated with the military post.
The person has self-quarantined at an off-post home since March 17 and has followed all protective measures as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Benning officials said.
Georgia reporting more than 2,000 coronavirus cases, 64 deaths
The Georgia Department of Public Health at noon Friday confirmed 2,001 cases of COVID-19 in the state, up by 358 from 7 p.m. Thursday. It’s the biggest jump in a single reporting period to date.
Statewide, 64 people have now died from the novel coronavirus. Eight new deaths were reported overnight.
The Georgia Public Health Laboratory and private labs have conducted a total of 9,865 COVID-19 tests as of noon March 27. The state has tested 1,746 people. Private labs have tested 8,119 state officials said.
Alabama cancels spring high school sports
Alabama state superintendent Eric Mackey announced that no more high school spring sports will take place in the state during a Thursday press conference with Governor Kay Ivey.
This includes:
- Baseball
- Golf
- Soccer
- Softball
- Tennis
- Track
Fort Benning continuing with school closures until further notice
Fort Benning Schools announced Friday morning that it will continue with school closures until further notice. All online learning and assignments will continue.
Columbus suspends recycling, yard waste collection
Columbus city inmate work crews will not collect yard waste and recycling during the COVID-19 emergency, authorities said Friday.
Regular household garbage collection will continue on its regular schedule.
Mayor amends emergency order to include Columbus public parks
Friday morning, Columbus Mayor Skip Henderson issued an amendment to the declaration that states outdoor areas of city parks and restrooms can remain open as long as “six foot social distancing is practiced.”
All other facilities and recreational equipment located within the parks are off limits until April 6, including but not limited to tennis courts, basketball courts, volley ball courts, exercise stations, pavilions and playground equipment.
US House passes coronavirus stimulus bill with money for Americans
The U.S. House of Representatives passed the coronavirus stimulus bill Friday and sent the package to President Donald Trump for his signature.
The Senate approved the $2 trillion package Thursday. The House voted to approve the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act midday Friday.
The bill will now go to President Donald Trump for his signature.
After days of debate and negotiation, the U.S. Senate passed the stimulus bill Thursday with a 96-0 vote.
This story was originally published March 27, 2020 at 9:21 AM.
