SCDHEC investigating 46 new cases of COVID-19 – Total now at 173

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As of Saturday, (Mar. 21) the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) is investigating 46 additional cases of the COVID-19 novel coronavirus. This brings the total number statewide to 173 cases* in 30 counties. So far there have been three deaths.
“We can all take steps every day to help limit the spread of this virus,” said Dr. Michael Kacka, DHEC physician and medical consultant. “As the number of positive cases throughout the state is expected to increase, we’re continuing to focus our efforts on preventing spread of the disease with special attention to those who are most high-risk for contracting the virus.”
New positive cases as of Mar. 21:
Anderson County: 4 cases
Beaufort County: 4 cases
Charleston County: 4 cases
Colleton County: 1 case
Darlington County: 1 case
Dillon County: 1 case
Edgefield County: 1 case
Greenville County: 5 cases
Greenwood County: 2 cases
Horry County: 1 case
Kershaw County: 6 cases
Lexington County: 4 cases
Marlboro County: 1 case
Newberry County: 1 case
Orangeburg County: 1 case
Richland County: 6 cases
Spartanburg County: 1 case
Sumter County: 2 cases
York County: 1 case
DHEC’s COVID-19 webpage is updated daily with a map of positive cases as well as the most current recommendations for protecting against COVID-19.
In addition to taking daily precautions for preventing against the spread of the disease, residents can take the following preparedness recommendations:
Know the signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and what to do if you become symptomatic
If you’re sick, stay home from work, school, and public events
Regularly wash your hands with soap and water
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your elbow
Avoid contact with people who are sick
Don’t share personal items
Clean frequently touched surfaces
Set up a separate room for sick household members
Check in with family and friends who live alone, especially those who may be in a high-risk group
Additionally, residents can prepare for a possible illness or quarantine by:
Periodically checking regular prescription drugs to ensure a continuous supply at home
Having nonprescription drugs and other health supplies on hand, including pain relievers, stomach remedies, cough and cold medicines, fluids with electrolytes, and vitamins
Getting copies and maintaining electronic versions of health records from doctors, hospitals, pharmacies and other sources and store them, for personal reference
Talking with family members and loved ones about how they would be cared for if they got sick, or what will be needed to care for them in your home.
Individuals with signs of illness are asked to stay at home and not attend public gatherings. South Carolinians are encouraged to monitor for symptoms, practice social distancing, avoid touching frequently touched items (such as doorknobs and handrails), and regularly wash their hands, especially after being in a public place.
Anyone with concerns about their health should reach out to their healthcare provider. For information about the nationwide response to COVID-19, visit coronavirus.gov.
*As new information is provided to the department, some changes in cases may occur. Cases are reported based on the individual’s county of residence, as it is provided to the department. DHEC’s COVID-19 map will adjust to reflect any reclassified cases.