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COLUMBIA, SC – Health officials are asking visitors to South Carolina’s beaches to test the new coronavirus.
On Friday, South Carolina public health officials advised anyone who recently visited a beach in South Carolina – especially those who did not practice social detachment or did not wear a mask – to take the COVID-19 test.
“If you went to the beach, you probably came into contact with someone who is positive, but perhaps asymptomatic,” said Joan Duwve, director of public health for the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.
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Duwve said infection rates were very high among those who visited the coastal state’s beaches. SCDHEC reports that entire groups that visited the state’s beaches had positive results.
SCDHEC said it is also aware of case groups among teenagers and young adults who spent time together in social settings on the beaches of South Carolina, a popular tourist destination for people outside the state.
“They did not wear masks and had no social distance, and many of them contracted the virus, which not only made them sick, but also put the health of their families and the entire community at risk,” said Duwve. .
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SCDHEC advises anyone who recently went to the beach on a school trip or participated in group activities on a beach in South Carolina to take the test at a test site.
Pop-up test sites are available across the state with COVID-19 screenings free of charge.
According to Duwve, South Carolina saw a 414% increase in COVID-19 cases recently reported among the 21-30 year olds and a 966% increase in recently reported cases among those aged 11-20.
“We will continue to say so, until more people listen to our recommendations. Wear a mask. Social distance from other people by at least six feet. Avoid group meetings. Wash your hands and stay home when you’re sick, ”said Duwve.