Staff reports | The federal Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) face mask mandate for airports, planes, buses and other public transit services is set to end on March 18, unless it is extended once again.
The mask mandate was previously extended twice, but it remains unclear if it will happen again. However, the mask mandate does remain in place ahead of the busy spring break holiday, according to a Wednesday release from the TSA.
“We are prepared and ready for a busy spring, and are doing our part to ensure the traveling public is safe and secure by continuing to deploy new technologies within the checkpoint that enhance security, reduce physical contact and improve the traveling experience,” TSA administrator David Pekoske in a statement. “We just ask travelers to do their part by being respectful to each other and those who work in the transportation sector – from our officers to airport workers and flight crew.”
The federal Centers for Disease Control recently shifted its COVID-19 guidance late February to say most Americans would be safe to go without masks in an indoor setting. More than 90% of Americans live in areas deemed low or medium risk for COVID transmission (Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester are all currently medium risk); however, the CDC currently recommends masking only in high-risk areas.
Latest COVID-19 data
South Carolina health officials on Thursday reported 355 total new cases of COVID-19, with 150 confirmed, and 81 new deaths, 57 of which were confirmed. As of March 9, 334 COVID-19-positive individuals are hospitalized, 30.4% lower than last week. In addition, 29 COVID-19-positive individuals are ventilated, 23.7% lower than last week.
With 7,876 test results reported Thursday, 4.2% were confirmed positive.
- Percentage of S.C. residents age 12+ with at least one vaccine: 66.7%
- Percentage of S.C. residents age 12+ who have completed vaccination: 57.6%
- Percentage of S.C. residents age 5-11 with at least one vaccine: 19.5%
- Percentage of S.C. residents age 5-11 who have completed vaccination: 15.5%
For more information, visit the S.C. SCDHEC COVID-19 dashboard.
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