Coronavirus live updates: Here’s what to know in South Carolina on May 31
We’re tracking the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus in South Carolina. Check back for updates.
Latest case count
At least 11,861 people have tested positive for the coronavirus and 494 people have died in South Carolina as of Sunday afternoon, according to state officials.
The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control on Sunday reported 312 new cases, down from 266 the day before.
State officials on Sunday also reported seven additional coronavirus-related deaths. Deaths were reported in Anderson, Chester, Colleton, Darlington, Hampton, Marlboro and York counties.
More than 6 million people around the world have tested positive for COVID-19 and more than 370,000 have died, according to Johns Hopkins University. In the United States, more than 1.7 million people have tested positive for the virus and more than 104,000 people have died.
Testing sites open
A drive-thru testing site in Myrtle Beach drew hundreds of cars on Saturday, including some that got in line as early as 8 a.m., The Sun News reported. It was the first day of free COVID-19 testing at a Tidelands Health clinic.
Free coronavirus testing locations opened across the state on Friday and Saturday, The State reported. A list of sites, some of which require appointments, can be found here.
Cases increasing as SC reopens
Confirmed coronavirus cases in South Carolina are increasing as the state continues to reopen its economy, The State reported Friday.
The surge in cases could have to do with increases in testing, but public health officials say to look at the percentage of positive tests as an indicator.
“That proportion has increased over the last two weeks, according to DHEC data. From May 13 to May 26, the percent of positive cases trended upward, changing from 2.7% to a peak of 7.7%,” The State reported.
This story was originally published May 31, 2020 at 8:27 AM.
