The S.C. first case of a variant of COVID-19 first detected in the United Kingdom was found in the Lowcountry, a private testing facility reported on Saturday.
The state also reported 2,966 new cases of COVID-19, with 65 deaths. Among 11,964 tests, 24.8% were positive Saturday, according to the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).
Saturday’s reports of the new variant are the second this week, days after a South African variant turned up for the first time in the U.S. in patients in the S.C. Lowcountry and Pee Dee.
“The arrival of the second SARS-CoV-2 variant in our state is a yet another important reminder to all South Carolinians that the fight against this deadly virus is far from over,” said Dr. Brannon Traxler, DHEC interim public health director, in a statement. “While more COVID-19 vaccines are on the way, supplies are still very limited. We must all remain dedicated to the fight by doing the right things to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our communities.”
Stay cool. Support City Paper.
City Paper has been bringing the best news, food, arts, music and event coverage to the Holy City since 1997. Support our continued efforts to highlight the best of Charleston with a one-time donation or become a member of the City Paper Club.