COVID vaccine live updates: Here’s what to know in South Carolina on Oct. 18
We’re tracking the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus and vaccines in South Carolina. Check back for updates.
About 700 new COVID-19 cases reported in SC
At least 711,874 people have tested positive for the coronavirus and 11,531 have died in South Carolina since March 2020, according to state health officials.
The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control on Monday reported 708 new COVID-19 cases and 42 coronavirus-related deaths. There were also 214 probable cases and seven probable deaths, data show.
At least 1,023 people in the state were reported hospitalized with COVID-19 as of Monday, including 307 patients who were being treated in intensive care units and 204 who were on ventilators. Just over 11% of hospitalizations across the state are COVID-19-related, data show.
As of Monday, 5.3% of COVID-19 tests were reported positive. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said 5% or lower means there is a low level of community spread.
Roughly 54% of South Carolinians eligible to receive a coronavirus vaccine are fully vaccinated, and nearly 62% have received at least one dose, according to health officials.
SC leaders mourn ‘trailblazer’ Gen. Colin Powell
South Carolina leaders are remembering the life and legacy of former Secretary of State Colin Powell, who died from complications of COVID-19.
Powell’s family announced the former Army general’s passing early Monday. He was fully vaccinated but had been treated for a blood cancer in recent years. He was 84.
“A trailblazer & dedicated public servant, he committed his life to serving our country,” House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn, D-Columbia, wrote on Twitter. “His calm and steady leadership will be missed.”
U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., lauded Powell as a great military leader who had “a passion for diplomacy.” “The men and women of the foreign service never had a better champion,” Graham added.
U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, R-Daniel Island, also took to Twitter after news of Powell’s death and said she was “thankful for having witnessed his patriotism.”
