Should you wear a mask again as flu and COVID ravage SC? Here’s what DHEC says
South Carolinians who still have masks from the COVID-19 pandemic days may want to consider using them again in certain situations, health officials say.
Cases of flu and COVID have skyrocketed across the state in recent weeks, the latest data from the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control shows. To help curb the rise in infections, Dr. Martha Buchanan, Lead Medical Consultant for DHEC, suggested masks and other preventative measures during a Thursday press briefing.
“If you’re going to a place with a lot of people, consider wearing a mask,” Buchanan said. “We know they help reduce risk. It’s becoming more acceptable to wear a mask.”
Other prevention suggestions include:
- Getting vaccine
- Wash hands regularly
- Cover your cough
- Stay home if you are sick
SC Flu and COVID rates
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, South Carolina is one of seven states with the highest rates of flu activity in the U.S.
“Sadly, we continue to see flu deaths around the state, reminding us not to take flu cases lightly,” Buchanan said.
There were seven flu-associated deaths reported in the state the week of Dec. 25 through Dec. 31, the latest DHEC data shows. There have been 70 flu-associated deaths to date this influenza season.
DHEC reported widespread flu activity, with 1,231 lab-confirmed tests for the week of Dec. 25. There have been 44,695 total lab-confirmed tests to date. There were fewer confirmed tests the week of Dec. 25 than the previous week, but that was because of a drop in reporting, Buchanan said.
“When we look at our data from this past week, it looks like maybe our numbers decreased, but we think that’s due to holidays and slow reporting,” she said. “The data will catch up next week.”
COVID
The latest CDC data shows a steady rise in COVID hospital admissions — with 386 admissions the week of Dec. 23, compared to 259 the week of Dec. 16 and 243 the week of Dec. 9.
Flu vaccine
Flu vaccines are strongly recommended for everyone 6 months and older, with rare exceptions, such as people with specific allergies and children younger than 6 months of age. Vaccines are available at offices of healthcare providers and many pharmacies, including national chains.
To find a flu vaccine near you in South Carolina, click here.
