On Friday Dec. 4, South Carolina announced its highest number of new cases of COVID-19. One week later, the state eclipse that number by more than 700.
A total of 3,217 confirmed and probable cases of COVID-19 were announced Friday and 47 additional South Carolinians lost their lives because of the virus. The state has now suffered 4,673 deaths and exceeded 245,200 cases since the first case was reported March 6.
“South Carolina, like many other states, is currently experiencing a worsening of this pandemic,” said Dr. Brannon Traxler, DHEC Interim Public Health Director. “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. It is incumbent upon all of us to continue to take actions aimed at saving lives.”
State public health officials are calling on all South Carolinians to continue to act to reduce the spread of COVID-19 by taking small steps that make a big difference, including:
• wearing a face mask;
• social distancing from others by at least six feet;
• getting tested and staying home when you’re sick; and
• limiting contact with those outside your household.
“No one else should have to die at the hands of this silent killer,” said Dr. Linda Bell, 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.”
In addition to following public health safety precautions, DHEC continues to urge South Carolinians to answer the call. If DHEC calls, be open and honest with case investigators and contact monitors and follow their guidance. The information provided through these calls helps the public health staff take actions to slow the spread of COVID-19 in communities.
