State health officials released a new hotline on Friday afternoon for questions about vaccination and distribution of COVID-19, a way to combat a multitude of calls and other consultations that have proved overwhelming.
The so-called vaccine information line – 866-365-8110 – was launched with 240 operators, according to the SC Department of Health and Environmental Control. The line is operational seven days a week, 12 hours a day, from 7 am to 7 pm
“Many in South Carolina do not have access to the Internet, so offering a dedicated vaccine hotline to help them locate contact information for vaccine providers is essential,” said DHEC’s Nick Davidson. “This new line helps DHEC to offer better customer service, which tracks people’s demand for vaccines and information about them”
The vaccine information line accompanies the department’s hotline, 855-472-3432, which aims to assist people with general questions about the coronavirus, the disease it causes, tests and other services not related to the virus.
“By offering two well-equipped lines of information, we are reducing waiting times and improving people’s experience, quickly getting the help they need,” said Davidson in a widely distributed statement. “In the coming weeks, we will be adding 200 more operators to the vaccine information line. We are encouraged by the number of people who want to be vaccinated in South Carolina. Until our vaccine supply matches our demand, we ask for everyone’s patience. “
More than 360,000 doses of vaccine have been administered in the state of Palmetto, the data show.
Officials on Friday reported 102 new cases of COVID-19 in Aiken County, too. The neighboring counties of Edgefield and Barnwell registered 17 and 11 new cases, respectively. There have been no new deaths reported for counties in the area.
The first death in the state of multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in children, associated with COVID-19, was also reported on Friday; a 17-year-old upstate died on January 27. No other identifying information was released.
“It is heartbreaking to have to report the death of such a young person,” said state epidemiologist Dr. Linda Bell. “Our condolences go out to the family and to the many families that have suffered losses related to COVID-19.”
At least 42 cases of MIS-C, as is known, have been reported in the State of Palmetto. Symptoms of MIS-C, a rare condition, include fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, neck pain, rash, red eyes and fatigue.