What you need to know about COVID-19 in Myrtle Beach SC, Horry County

Overview

• The state of South Carolina passed 3,000 COVID-19 deaths by late September.

• Horry County recently voted to keep their mask mandate in place, and other municipalities, such as Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach and Conway continue to have mask rules as well.

• Georgetown County also recently voted to extend their mask ordinance, but have issued no citations for not wearing them, and they’re not alone.

Social Distancing

• Housing insecurity due to the pandemic is plaguing some in the area.

• The Myrtle Beach area has boomed with population growth over the years, but relocation has looked differently during the coronavirus pandemic.

• Some residents and visitors are trying to infuse statements, fun or fashion into mask-wearing, donning coverings with messages, movies or sports.

Businesses and facilities

• The Myrtle Beach, SC area saw a shortage in lifeguards and smaller crowds this summer season, but ocean rescue numbers remained about the same as in previous years.

• Horry County was one of the first SC counties to host a jury trial since the pandemic began.

• A housing group in Horry County saw their numbers soar due to people in need from impacts of the virus.

• Horry County officials adopted different procedures for hurricane shelters due to impacts of COVID-19.

Events

• Coastal Carolina University held its football game opener against Campbell at Brooks Stadium on Friday, Sept. 19.

• The state High School League decided to push the start of sports from the end of July to Aug. 17. Local teams won’t be participating in games until at least September.

• The Carolina Country Music Festival was postponed until 2021 after initially being moved from June to September.

Healthcare status

• There are 733 hospital beds occupied by COVID-19 patients across South Carolina.

• Health officials say the coronavirus likely was present on the Grand Strand several weeks before first confirmed case.

School updates

• After starting out as virtual only, thousands of Horry County students have requested to go to hybrid learning at brick-and-mortar schools for in-person classes.

• Officials offered a tour inside a local Horry County school ahead of the first day to show how safety guidelines would be followed.

• State Superintendent of Education Molly Spearman announced the all SC students would be required to wear a mask when heading back to school this year.

How to give help

• How to help Myrtle Beach-area organizations focused on coronavirus aid.
  
  

How to get help

• How to get assistance from Myrtle Beach-area organizations for coronavirus-related personal challenges.

Public Transport

• Coast RTA will be adding new routes and buses to their services.
• Coast RTA has resumed regular services, while maintaining social distancing.
  
  

Updated: September 21, 2020

This story was originally published May 7, 2020 at 10:57 AM.