Coronavirus
Coronavirus live updates: Here’s what to know in South Carolina on Aug. 24
We’re tracking the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus in South Carolina. Check back for updates.
Less than 600 new cases reported
At least 111,202 people have tested positive for the coronavirus in South Carolina and 2,387 have died, according to state officials.
The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control on Monday reported 543 new cases.
But the DHEC cautions that the percentage of positive tests remains high, and above the level necessary to control the spread of COVID-19. The average percentage of positive tests has lowered in recent weeks from 20% to 18%.
Nationally, about 8.7% of tests come back positive. The World Health Organization recommends a positive rate of 5% or lower.
Officials on Monday reported seven additional coronavirus-related deaths, compared to eight the day before.
USCB soccer team in quarantine
The University of South Carolina Beaufort women’s soccer team is in quarantine after a team member, and seven other students at the school, tested positive for COVID-19 last week, The Island Packet reported.
“Everybody is doing fine, health-wise,” USCB spokeswoman Carol Weir said.
Between Saturday and Wednesday, 727 students have been tested. The school is only aware of eight infections.
There are 31 students quarantining, including the 26 members of the women’s soccer team.
Clemson to furlough employees, cut pay
To make up for financial losses caused by COVID-19, Clemson University will be furloughing faculty and staff starting Sept. 1, and enacting pay cuts.
“This action is in addition the University’s ongoing hiring freeze and other cost reduction measures that have been taken in recent months to mitigate the financial impact of the pandemic,” the school said in a statement.
Employees making less than $50,000 a year won’t be effected, but all others are will be furloughed between two and 12 days, depending on their salary.
University president Jim Clements, and athletics employees making $400,000 or more are taking voluntary cuts of 10%.
SC teachers speak out
More than 250 teachers, librarians, coaches and other educators from South Carolina responded to a survey about whether they are ready to return to classrooms.
McClatchy’s news organizations in the state created the survey. Read more about it here, including some educators’ responses.
Plans for high school sports
Some high school football games are set to begin in South Carolina this week.
The first private school games will start Friday, while public school games will start in a month, The State reported on Sunday. Gov. Henry McMaster has limited the number of fans allowed in stadiums to 50% capacity or 250 people, whichever is less.
The state Department of Commerce approved the S.C. Independent Schools Association’s plan to allow fans at athletic events last week. Capacity will be reduced with seating in every other row. Masks will be required when entering and exiting the venue and when moving around the venue.
S.C. High School League is finalizing its proposal for allowing fans at public school venues, which will be sent to the Department of Commerce this week.
Face coverings will be required at all times for staff and attendees, according to the in-progress plan obtained by The State.
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