Coronavirus live updates: Here’s what to know in South Carolina on June 9
We’re tracking the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus in South Carolina. Check back for updates.
Cases top 15,000
At least 15,228 people in South Carolina have tested positive for the coronavirus and 568 have died, according to state health officials.
The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control reported an additional 434 people who tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday, and 11 more deaths.
More than 7.1 million cases of the virus and 408,000 deaths have been reported worldwide as of Tuesday, according to Johns Hopkins University. In the United States, more than 1.9 million positive cases and 111,000 deaths have been reported.
Hospital beds filling up
Hospitals across South Carolina are nearing capacity, The State reported, but it’s unclear if that’s due to increasing coronavirus cases, or just a sign that hospitals are getting back to normal -- as hospitals have been keeping beds empty to ensure room is available for COVID-19 patients.
But some counties are seeing case counts grow as hospitals fill, according to the outlet, including a rural Chesterfield County facility that is “experiencing a peak of patients with COVID-19.”
Why are cases hitting record levels?
The number of people testing positive each day continues to increase to levels not seen before in South Carolina, hitting a new record in three out of the last four days.
Public health officials say the increase is likely a combination of the increase in testing and the more lax restrictions on social distancing.
“DHEC officials would not say Monday whether they believe restrictions on businesses or people leaving their homes were lifted too soon, instead saying that residents ‘can be safe whether or not businesses have reopened,’” The State reports.
Cases are reaching record highs in many counties. Greenville County saw the biggest jump with more than 110 people testing positive, according to DHEC.
Horry County also saw record numbers, with more than 60 new positive tests reported Monday. DHEC identified Horry County, which includes Myrtle Beach, as a coronavirus “hot spot,” according to The Sun News. That means the state will increase virus monitoring in the county.
DHEC would not say if Myrtle Beach’s reopening for a busy Memorial Day weekend was to blame for the spike in cases, but officials “admitted the timing does line up,” the Sun News reports.
How to vote during the pandemic
June 9 is the statewide primary election day in South Carolina. With coronavirus cases increasing around the state, elections officials recommend voters wear a mask to cast their ballot in person.
Officials also say voters should bring their own pen to sign in to try and prevent spreading the virus around polling locations.
A mask is not required to vote, The Sun News reports.
Voters Tuesday get to pick their party nominations for the U.S. House and Senate and the state legislature.
This story was originally published June 9, 2020 at 8:02 AM.
