COVID vaccine live updates: Here’s what to know in South Carolina on Nov. 20
We’re tracking the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus and vaccines in South Carolina. Check back for updates.
More than 600 new COVID-19 new cases reported in SC
At least 729,822 people have tested positive for the coronavirus and 12,194 have died in South Carolina since March 2020, according to state health officials.
The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control on Friday, Nov. 19, reported 629 new COVID-19 cases and 15 coronavirus-related deaths. There were also 308 probable cases and three probable deaths, data show.
At least 448 people in the state were reported hospitalized with COVID-19 as of Nov. 19, including 129 patients who were being treated in intensive care units and 67 who were on ventilators. Nearly 5% of hospitalizations across the state are COVID-19-related, data shows.
As of Nov. 19, 3.3% of COVID-19 tests were reported positive. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said 5% or lower means there is a low level of community spread.
Nearly 50% of South Carolinians eligible to receive a coronavirus vaccine are fully vaccinated, and more than 57% have received at least one dose, according to health officials.
FDA authorizes Pfizer, Moderna boosters for all adults. Here’s what to know
Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 booster shots have been authorized for all U.S. adults to ensure “continued protection” against the disease as evidence shows immunity may wane over time, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced Friday, Nov. 19.
The FDA’s amendment to the emergency use authorizations for both vaccines means any adult can receive a booster shot at least six months after they received their second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines or at least two months after they received their single dose of the Johnson & Johnson shot.
A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advisory committee voted on Friday, Nov. 19, in support of Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 boosters for all adults. The agency’s voting language did not include people who received the J&J vaccine because federal health officials already gave the group the green light for boosters in October.
The CDC group’s recommendations say anyone ages 18 and older “may” receive a booster shot “based on individual benefit and risk,” while anyone ages 50 and older “should” get a booster dose without the need to examine individual benefit and risk.
Read the full story here.
Get the COVID-19 shot and receive a cash prize in Richland County
Richland County residents who haven’t rolled up their sleeves for the COVID-19 vaccine will have a chance to do so at an upcoming vaccine drive — and walk away with a few perks.
Attendees will receive free food and a chance at winning a $100 gift card in exchange for getting the jab, according to The State. The vaccine drive is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 20, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the the Lower Richland sheriff’s substation, the newspaper reported.
Prisma Health will be administering the Pfizer vaccine to adults and children ages 5 and older. The shots are free, and no appointment is required.
Learn more about the vaccine drive here.
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