Coronavirus live updates: Here’s what to know in South Carolina on Sept. 19

We’re tracking the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus in South Carolina. Check back for updates.

Reported deaths pass 3,000

At least 134,052 people have tested positive for the coronavirus in South Carolina, and 3,017 have died, according to state health officials.

The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control on Saturday reported 706 new cases of the virus, down from 766 the day before.

Nine deaths were reported Saturday.

The DHEC on Saturday reported a positive test rate of 11.2%. Health officials have said that number should be 5% or lower to slow the spread of the virus.

USC downgrades coronavirus threat level

The University of South Carolina lowered its COVID-19 rating to “new normal” on Friday, the least severe level on the university’s risk assessment scale.

The rating is based on several factors, including total cases, testing and quarantine capacity, and more.

USC is reporting 170 active cases as of Friday, 164 of which are students.

First SC cities to pass mask rules benefited most

Early adopters of mask mandates saw the biggest declines in coronavirus activity, according the state Department of Health and Environmental Control.

The health agency has said before South Carolina towns and cities that passed rules requiring residents to wear masks saw infection rates plummet as a result. But the timing of those mandates matter, experts say.

DHEC officials divided the cities into five groups, organized by when mask mandates were implemented.

• Week of June 23-June 29: 66.5% greater decrease
• Week of June 30-July 6: 39.2% greater decrease
• Week of July 7-July 13: 6.1% greater decrease
• Week of July 14-July 20: 3.5% greater decrease
• Week of July 21-July 27: no greater percent decrease

K-12 coronavirus cases up by 118

The total number of coronavirus cases reported in K-12 schools has grown by 118 since Tuesday, according to state Department of Health and Environmental Control data released Friday.

There have been 532 infections in districts statewide since the start of the school year, the latest figures show, compared to 414 reported earlier this week.

According to DHEC, 352 students and 180 school employees have tested positive.

This story was originally published September 19, 2020 at 7:27 AM.