Coronavirus live updates Aug. 24: Horry County reports fewer than 20 new cases

Coronavirus cases in Horry County grew by 16 Monday, officials announced.

The latest numbers bring the total positive tests to 9,053 in the county, with the majority being reported since June. There were no new deaths from COVID-19 in the county Monday. Total virus-related deaths have reached 168 since the beginning of the pandemic, according to the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.

Here are the latest updates on the coronavirus in the Myrtle Beach area Aug. 24:

Officials have confirmed 1,635 cases and 35 deaths in Georgetown County since mid-March, according to DHEC.

The state of South Carolina has seen 111,202 cases of COVID-19 and 2,387 virus-related deaths since the beginning of the pandemic, DHEC reports.

In Horry County, more than 72,300 tests have been reported since the beginning of the pandemic. Of the tests performed last week, 14.7 percent were positive in the county and 15 percent were positive across the state.

Today’s takeaways:

• In Horry County, there’s a “substantial disconnect” between what people make and what they can afford. Experts say the impacts of the coronavirus could exacerbate this problem.
• A local housing group usually helps around 30 people monthly. Those numbers have skyrocketed during the pandemic, thanks to demand and CARES Act money. Read more here.
• South Carolina teachers worry about heading back to school as the pandemic continues, calling it a “disaster in the making.” Here’s what you need to know.
• Myrtle Beach police pulled guns on two unarmed women during a traffic stop, a lawsuit against the city claims. Get the details here.

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 August 24, 2020 at 2:40 PM.