Coronavirus live updates: Here’s what to know in South Carolina on March 20
We’re tracking the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus in South Carolina. Check back for updates.
Latest coronavirus cases
South Carolina has at least 124 reported cases of the coronavirus, and one person has died from the disease, according to public health officials.
The Department of Health and Environmental Control announced another 45 cases of coronavirus Friday afternoon, bringing the official total into the triple digits.
According to The State, Richland County saw the largest increase, with 14 people reporting positive.
A marine stationed in Beaufort has tested positive for COVID-19, shortly after returning from a trip to California, The Island Packet reported Friday. The marine is currently isolated and his condition is being monitored.
More than 260,000 cases of the COVID-19 virus have been confirmed worldwide with more than 11,000 deaths as of March 20, according to Johns Hopkins University. The United States has more than 16,000 confirmed cases with at least 216 deaths.
Hilton Head to close beaches
Hilton Head Island is closing down all beaches starting Saturday, in an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
Mayor John McCann told The Island Packet that the move is intended to promote social distancing.
Inmate releases considered
Horry County officials say dozens of inmates could soon be released from J. Reuben Long Detention Center to help slow the spread of the coronavirus.
Only “low-level offenders” are being considered for release, and that each case would be reviewed to ensure there’s no threat to the public, officials say.
Clearing the beaches
Gov. Henry McMaster has ordered police, including the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, to “disperse crowds gathered on our state’s beaches” amid the coronavirus outbreak.
“Coastal residents can responsibly maintain social distance while enjoying our state’s beaches,” McMaster said Friday on Twitter.
No hospital visitors
Visitors will no longer be allowed at Lexington Medical Center or any of its facilities, the hospital announced Friday.
There are some exceptions, however. One visitor may be allowed in the case of end-of-life events, or to accompany obstetric patients, pediatric patients and newborn nursery or special care nursery patients.
Insurers to cover mental health
A number of insurers are temporarily expanding coverage to include virtual mental health services.
Blue Cross Blue Shield and Medicare have both promised to cover telehealth sessions with psychologists and psychiatrists, according to The State.
Anthem is also waiving charges for mental health-related services, and UnitedHealthcare has implemented a free emotional support line.
Help for small businesses
The U.S. Small Business Administration approved low-interest federal disaster loans for all South Carolina counties, the state announced Friday morning.
“These low-interest loans are of monumental importance to our business community,” Gov. Henry McMaster said in a news release.
“There’s no doubt that our state’s small businesses have suffered losses throughout this incredibly difficult time, but help is on the way,” he said.
More state employees working from home
McMaster directed all non-essential state employees to start working from home. The order includes all state agencies.
McMaster called on people to isolate as much as they can to put the brakes on the spread of the coronavirus in South Carolina.
“Use common sense, treat their neighbors courteously and compassionately, if you don’t need to be in a public space, then stay home,” McMaster said. “We know this virus is spread by contact.”
This story was originally published March 20, 2020 at 7:40 AM.
