More than 12 percent of the Tuscaloosa fire department has been put on leave in less than 24 hours after at least one firefighter tested positive for COVID-19.
Seventeen firefighters were put on paid leave Tuesday night. By Wednesday morning, a total of 31 firefighters had been sent home amid coronavirus concerns.
By Wednesday afternoon, said Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox, seven had been cleared and returned to work. Additionally, four Tuscaloosa police officers also are on leave after possible exposure.