Coronavirus live updates: Here’s what to know in South Carolina on March 21
We’re tracking the most up-to-date information about coronavirus in South Carolina. Check back for updates.
Latest coronavirus cases
South Carolina has at least 176 reported cases of coronavirus, including 46 cases announced Saturday.
Richland and Kershaw counties each saw six new cases confirmed Saturday as they remain the hardest-hit counties in the state.
Among the statewide cases are a 7-month-old boy from Camden and 11 students and one professor at the University of South Carolina.
A USC student who lived in a dorm and tested positive for coronavirus is now quarantined along with 17 other students.
Two more deaths
Two more people in South Carolina have died after contracting COVID-19, bringing the state total to three, state health officials said Friday evening.
One patient was from Florence County, and the other was a resident at an assisted-living facility in Charleston County, officials said. Both were elderly and had underlying health conditions.
The first death in the state was reportedly Monday, when an elderly patient at Lexington Medical Center Extended Care Skilled Nursing Facility died.
The beaches
Myrtle Beach is open for beach-goers, Police Chief Amy Prock said Friday.
Prock’s message came shortly after S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster ordered police to disperse large crowds at state beaches during the state of emergency due to coronavirus.
“Our agency has received several messages about large groups and illegal activity on the north end of our beach,” Prock said in a news release. “To be clear, the beach is not being kept open for economic benefit. Closing it is simply not required at this point, as neither the Governor nor the President has suggested that wide open spaces, such as the beach, be closed to the public.”
Meanwhile, Hilton Head public beaches are closed for 60 days, starting Saturday morning.
Economic plan
Columbia city leaders are considering a $6 million plan to combat coronavirus.
Some of the money would help small businesses and nonprofits, and some would be used to help feed senior citizens.
Half of the money would go to first responders, including $2 million to boost recruiting efforts for the Columbia Police Department.
This story was originally published March 21, 2020 at 8:02 AM.
