South Carolina health officials announced the state’s highest number of daily new cases of COVID-19 to date Friday, eclipsing the previous record by more than 700. A total of 3,217 new confirmed and probable cases were reported alongside 47 additional deaths.
With 16,897 tests reported statewide, 18.6% were confirmed positive. Our state has now suffered 4,673 deaths and exceeded 245,200 cases since the onset of the pandemic, according to State Department of Health and Environmental Control totals.
“No one else should have to die at the hands of this silent killer,” said Dr. Linda Bell, the state epidemiologist. “It is within all of our powers to stop COVID-19. As we each wait patiently for our turn to receive the COVID-19 vaccines, let’s keep doing our part by wearing our masks and practicing social distancing.”
Though vaccine news is permeating media, experts are urging everyone to remember that it will still be a long time before it is made readily available to the general public.
“While the arriving vaccine is the light at the end of the tunnel, it will be months before there is enough vaccine available for everyone,” said Dr. Brannon Traxler, DHEC interim public health director. “It is incumbent upon all of us to continue to take actions aimed at saving lives.”
DHEC officials also urge South Carolinians to be open and honest with case investigators and contact monitors when they call, as well as follow their guidance.
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