COVID Cases Surge In South Carolina As Leaders Stress Mask Wearing And A Return To In Person Schooling

YORK, SC – Covid cases are surging in South Carolina. State health leaders warned people not to let their guard down, as the Governor pushed for a return to a pre-pandemic in person school schedule. 

“It’s difficult because now you have everyone at home too. That’s a change,” said a shopper in York County. 

Pandemic fatigue weighing on people. State health leaders say key metrics are reaching their highest levels since the pandemic began. 

“So many illnesses. So many lives lost and very unfortunately, we’re not near the end of this,” said Dr. Linda Bell, the DHEC Health Director.

Bell says only six counties in the state are showing signs of improvement. And 20% of the people being tested are positive. 

“That tells us that there is a great deal more disease in the community that is currently undiagnosed,” said Bell. 

York County reported the second highest number of cases in the state on Wednesday.

“I know we have fatigue from all the things we have to do, but now is not the time to let up. Now is the time to redouble our efforts,” said Gov. Henry McMaster. 

McMaster stressed the importance of wearing a mask, keeping distance, and avoiding groups of people. At the same time, pushing for all school districts in the state to hold face to face classes five days a week. 

“Parents should not have to choose between their child or their job,” said McMaster.

McMaster says there are unintended consequences when children are not in school. Several School districts are operating in a hybrid plan. But McMaster insists pre pandemic class structure should resume. 

“Had I the authority, I would have done it a long time ago. There is ample protective, personal protective equipment. There is ample procedures and policies that have been used successfully,” said McMaster.

On the vaccine front, McMaster says 200,000 to 300,000 doses will arrive later this month, but most South Carolinians will have to wait months to be vaccinated. 

“I want to caution everyone. This will be a slow process,” said McMaster.

High risk essential health care workers will be the first in the state to receive a vaccine. In the meantime, state health officials say masks and distancing are the best defense.