COVID vaccine live updates: Here’s what to know in South Carolina on Nov. 22
We’re tracking the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus and vaccines in South Carolina. Check back for updates.
More than 450 new cases reported in SC
At least 731,611 people have tested positive for the coronavirus and 12,220 have died in South Carolina since March 2020, according to state health officials.
The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control on Monday, Nov. 22, reported 476 new COVID-19 cases and no coronavirus-related deaths. There were also 138 probable cases and one probable death, data show.
At least 427 people in the state were reported hospitalized with COVID-19 as of Nov. 22, including 126 patients being treated in intensive care units and 74 on ventilators. About 5% of hospitalizations across the state are coronavirus-related, data shows.
As of Nov. 22, 2.9% 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 57% have received at least one dose, according to health officials.
What SC travelers should know about COVID-19, the flu ahead of holiday travel
As the holiday season kicks into high gear, South Carolinians are making travel plans to see family and friends. With COVID-19 numbers down and vaccinations widely available, public health experts say it’s safer to gather with loved ones this year.
“I think it’s OK to get together. We have a societal needs,” said American Medical Association President Gerald Harmon, who also serves as vice president of medical affairs at Tidelands Health in the Grand Strand.
“It’s nice to get together for the holiday with friends and relatives,” Harmon continued. “Most importantly, the difference between this Thanksgiving and the last Thanksgiving: We didn’t have a vaccine last Thanksgiving.”
This doesn’t mean travelers should let their guard down, according to health officials. Many Americans still haven’t been vaccinated against COVID-19 and millions more have yet to roll up their sleeves for their annual flu shot.
For tips on how to have a safe holiday, read the full story here.
This story was originally published November 22, 2021 at 2:00 PM.
