Coronavirus live updates July 27: Myrtle Beach area sees more than 95 new COVID-19 cases
Coronavirus cases continued to rise in the Myrtle Beach area Monday, according to the latest figures from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.
Horry County had 98 new cases as of Monday, bringing the county’s total to 7,548 since mid-March. Horry County’s death total increased by one with the virus now accounting for 104 deaths. The latest death was in an elderly individual, according to DHEC.
A news release from DHEC indicates 81 new cases, but the agency’s online map shows 98 new cases. Health officials have said the map provides the most accurate numbers.
In Georgetown County, there have been 1,100 confirmed cases and 15 deaths.
Here are the latest updates on the coronavirus in the Myrtle Beach area July 27.
Across South Carolina, cases reached 82,071 and there were 17 new deaths to raise the total to 1,452 because of COVID-19, DHEC reports.
While daily case totals remain high in the Myrtle Beach area, the weekly total reported in the county has actually declined for two consecutive weeks for the first time since April, according to DHEC data.
It’s unknown if the slight dip in new cases also means a lower percentage of people getting tested are receiving positive results because DHEC doesn’t currently provide testing data by county.
It’s also important to note that sudden downward trend has taken place after several Horry County municipalities enforced face masks regulations prior to the July Fourth holiday requiring coverings be worn in retail establishments, restaurants and personal service facilities.
But, as cases start to decline, the death total in Horry County reached 20 last week, it’s highest number of coronavirus deaths in a single week since mid-march.
Between July 19-July 25, Horry County reported 20 new coronaviurs deaths, doubling the amount of deaths in the previous week, with at east one death recorded each day of the week, according to DHEC. Of the 20 deaths, 17 were elderly individuals, with the remaining three middle-aged people.
The area’s previous single-week record for deaths was 17 between July 5-July 11. Between July 12-July 18, Horry County saw 10 deaths, according to DHEC.
The area’s first death was reported on March 24.
Today’s takeaways:
Horry County recorded its highest number of coronavirus deaths in a single week, as case dip slightly. Read more here.
Grand Strand residents turned out strong on Sunday to show support on the water for President Donald Trump.
Horry County Schools announced Monday that it has extended its Summer Food Free Meal Program through Aug. 18.
Wash your hands & wear a mask
This is your daily reminder to wash your hands often, wear a mask and practice social distancing.
DHEC asks people to wear a mask when visiting public places and practice social distancing to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. It is now mandatory to wear face masks in certain public areas in unincorporated Horry County, the City of Myrtle Beach, the City of North Myrtle Beach and Georgetown County.
Health officials say washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds can help prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
This story was originally published July 27, 2020 at 2:04 PM.
