For second straight day, SC sees record-high COVID-19 cases
A specimen collection bag for a COVID-19 test | MUSC photo
South Carolina once again set a new single-day high number of COVID-19 cases, shattering the previous record set on Friday. Cases continue to surge post-Thanksgiving and vaccines are likely still far away from widespread availability.
South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control reported 2,715 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state on Saturday, with 19 additional fatalities from the virus. On Friday, the state recorded 2,470 cases, saying the state was at “a pivotal point” to slow the spread of COVID-19 or let case counts and deaths continue to mount.
With 13,073 tests reported Saturday, 20.8% were positive, down slightly from Friday, but with thousands more tests included.
On Friday, DHEC cited a new study that showed face mask-wearing by 75% of the U.S. population would flatten projected infections by 37%.
“We can change our course,” the agency said in a press release. “Coming together, South Carolinians can substantially slow the spread of the virus everywhere, from our most rural communities to our busiest cities.”
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12/5 COVID-19 update: 2,715 cases; 20.8% positive; 19 deaths
Charleston City Paper Staff