COVID vaccine live updates: Here’s what to know in South Carolina on Feb. 19

We’re tracking the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus and COVID-19 vaccines in South Carolina. Check back for updates.

Over 1,500 new cases reported

At least 432,780 people have tested positive for the coronavirus in South Carolina and 7,325 have died since March, according to state health officials.

The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control on Friday reported 1,585 new COVID-19 cases, up from 1,451 reported the day before.

Fifty-one additional deaths were reported Friday.

At least 1,122 people were hospitalized with the coronavirus in South Carolina as of Friday, continuing a steady decline from record-high hospitalizations a month ago, which peaked at 2,466.

As of Friday, 8.7% of COVID-19 tests were positive. Health officials have said the number should be close to 5% to control the spread of the virus.

Rural SC is struggling to get vaccinated

Compared to their urban counterparts, rural South Carolina counties are receiving a less than equal proportion of COVID-19 vaccine doses, and fewer residents are getting inoculated, The State reported.

While about 40% of doses administered so far have gone to residents of Charleston, Richland and Greenville counties — accounting for roughly a quarter of the state’s population — just 4,946 doses have been administered in the eight rural counties that don’t have a hospital. That’s one-third less than if doses were being administered in an equitable fashion.

With fewer resources available in their communities, technology barriers and other issues that make scheduling a vaccine appointment difficult —for seniors, non-English speakers, and others -- are even harder to deal with.

Edward Simmer, director of the state Department of Health and Environmental Control, told lawmakers Tuesday that he is aware of the challenges rural areas are facing, and he aims to even the imbalance.

“We’re giving a lot of vaccine in rural counties, but we’re still lagging behind,” Simmer said.

The agency is ramping up vaccination clinics in rural communities, and also addressing digital difficulties with online registration and scheduling, partly with “mobile events” at community centers.

“We know a lot of our folks, especially 65 and over, do not have internet, do not have easy transportation,” Simmer said. “And that’s why we’re looking to things like these mobile units to get it out into communities where people are, to make sure that we’re maximizing equitable access to the vaccine.”

Delays force hospitals to reschedule 1,000 vaccine appointments

Due to shipping delays caused by winter storms, hospitals in Beaufort County had to reschedule nearly 1,000 COVID-19 vaccination appointments this week, The Island Packet reported.

Beaufort Memorial Hospital and Hilton Head Regional Healthcare said expected doses did not arrive. Only first-dose appointments had to be postponed at both hospitals, and second-dose appointments are still on track.

Grocery chain Kroger also said it was impacted by shipping delays. Spokespeople for other pharmacies didn’t respond to questions from the Island Packet.

Nick Davidson, senior deputy for public health at DHEC, said he expects the supply chain to recover quickly. “As far as the overall vaccine rollout goes, it will just be a blip.”

$25 million program launched to aid homeowners, renters hurt by COVID

For those struggling to keep a roof over their heads during the pandemic, $25 million in help is available.

Through the SC Stay program, launched Thursday, South Carolinians behind on housing bills can apply to receive either six months of rent or mortgage payments or $7,500, The State reported.

To qualify, applicants must have an income 80% less than the median in their area. If approved, payments will go to the mortgage lender or landlord of the applicant.

An initial application can be filled out online here, or by calling 833-985-2929. Applicants should have a copy of their rental lease or mortgage agreement on hand, as well as contact information for their landlord or mortgage lender. Applicants must also explain how the coronavirus pandemic has impacted them financially.

This story was originally published February 19, 2021 at 7:10 AM.