Several sources say they expect Governor Kay Ivey to issue a shelter in place order, possibly this week. However, Ivey's spokesperson said that decision has not been made.

“In consultation with the Coronavirus Task Force, the governor and the Alabama Department of Public Health have taken aggressive measures to combat COVID-19,” spokesperson Gina Maiola told WTVY in an emailed statement.

Ivey, last week, ordered many businesses to close until April 17 in hopes that would slow the spread of coronavirus. It is too early to tell if that measure is working. Confirmed cases in in Alabama continue to rise at an alarming rate but that increase is mostly due to more COVID-19 testing.

Of states boarding Alabama, only Tennessee has not issued a shelter in place order, though it appears on the cusp of one. About 2,000 doctors have called for that order.

One source, speaking on the condition of anonymity, told WTVY that Governor Ivey is struggling with the issue, not wanting to worsen the state's economic dilemma. “She, however, sees what is going on elsewhere,” that source said.

Maiola, in her email, seems to confirm that statement. “The governor remains committed to exploring all options and has not ruled anything out, but she hopes that we do not need to take this approach,” she said.

If Ivey issues an executive order, she would have great latitude in what restrictions are put in place. If she follows guidelines implemented by other states people would be told to stay home except when travel is essential. Supermarkets and gasoline stations would likely remain open as would other essential businesses.

As of Wednesday evening, 1084 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Alabama. The Department of Public Health said 17 have died, though that number may lag behind actual totals.

At least one person has died in a Dothan hospital. Another death is under investigation, per a source.