Coronavirus live updates: Here’s what to know in South Carolina on April 5
We’re tracking the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus in South Carolina. Check back for updates.
Latest coronavirus cases
More than 2,000 people have tested positive for the coronavirus in South Carolina, and 44 people have died, according to public health officials.
Another 132 cases of COVID-19 were reported Sunday, bringing the state total to 2,049.
Four more deaths were reported Sunday after six were reported Saturday — the most in a single day since the coronavirus was first discovered in South Carolina.
Three of the deaths reported Sunday were among older adults, officials said. One patient was middle aged and had underlying health conditions. The deaths were reported in Clarendon, Horry, Beaufort and Lee counties.
More than 1.2 million cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed worldwide with more than 68,000 deaths as of Sunday afternoon, according to Johns Hopkins University. The United States has more than 325,000 confirmed cases and more than 9,000 deaths.
Businesses violate orders
Two South Carolina businesses were cited for staying open during the coronavirus pandemic after Gov. Henry McMaster ordered the closure of all nonessential businesses in the state.
All for You Salon and Tres Gym in Charleston are both considered nonessential under the orders, but officials said they stayed open and allowed customers in despite warnings.
One pretended to be closed but let customers in the back door, police say.
Cases at SC prisons
Two more workers at Broad River Correctional Institution in Columbia tested positive for the coronavirus, South Carolina Department of Corrections said Saturday.
Four workers at the prison have now tested positive, and 16 cases have been confirmed among employees across SCDC’s 21 facilities.
No cases among inmates have been reported.
Visitors and volunteers are not allowed in South Carolina prisons in an effort to slow the spread of the virus.
Gas prices dropping
Gas prices have dropped amid the coronavirus outbreak, but vary by as much as 50 cents across the state.
A price analysis reported by AAA shows disparities of up to 37 cents per gallon between Hilton Head Island and Columbia, The Island Packet in Hilton Head reported. Prices in S.C. are about 20 cents below the national average, which is falling due to less demand and international tension.
Prices per gallon appear to be highest in the eastern part of the state, according to an interactive map on AAA’s website.
This story was originally published April 5, 2020 at 7:53 AM.
