Coronavirus live updates June 17: Horry County new cases outpaces rest of South Carolina
Confirmed coronavirus cases grew by 120 in Horry County with another death reported Wednesday, according to state health officials.
The latest announcement brings the total number of cases in the county to 1,417 since mid-March, the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control reports. There have been 35 virus-related deaths reported in Horry County, which is currently considered a hot spot for the virus by DHEC.
The new death was an elderly person, according to DHEC, which defines elderly as 65 years or older.
The new cases mark a new daily high in Horry County, which led the state in that figure for the second day in a row. The Myrtle Beach area was among the lowest in the state for confirmed coronavirus cases per capita for the first few months of tracking, but it has since moved toward the top with more than 400 cases per 100,000 residents.
Here are the latest updates on the coronavirus in the Myrtle Beach area June 17.
The number of cases in Horry County announced last week surpassed 500, topping previous weeks, DHEC data shows. There have been 284 announced so far this week in Horry County.
Cases in Georgetown County have reached 202, with three deaths due to the virus, DHEC reports.
Across South Carolina, cases have climbed to 20,551 and there have been 617 reported deaths. The state’s recovery rate is 79 percent as of June 15, according to DHEC.
A total of 4,409 people were tested in South Carolina Tuesday, with 13.1 percent testing positive, DHEC data shows. DHEC does not track testing by county.
Hospital occupancy statewide is about 70.6 percent with 3,087 beds available and 607 inpatient beds currently occupied by patients who have tested positive for COVID-19 or are under investigation for the virus.
DHEC also announced Wednesday it would begin reporting probable cases and deaths, with a probable case being someone without a confirmed test, but clinical evidence of an infection or a positive antibody blood test. A probable death is someone whose death certificate lists COVID-19 as a cause or significant condition, but did not undergo viral testing. DHEC reported five total probable cases Wednesday.
Today’s takeaways:
- A Loris nursing home has had more coronavirus cases in the last 30 days than other facilities in the state.
- Health experts say it is unlikely for lockdowns to return though COVID-19 cases are on the rise. Here’s the latest.
- If you’re wondering about coronavirus updates across South Carolina, here’s the latest today.
Wash your hands & wear a mask
Washing your hands often and wearing a face covering can help prevent the spread of the coronavirus, health experts say. It’s important to wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and refrain from touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
DHEC urges people to wear face masks while visiting public places and practice social distancing.
This story was originally published June 17, 2020 at 4:08 PM.
