Good morning, Columbia. We hope everyone had a safe and exciting Fourth of July weekend + got some well-needed rest.
As coronavirus cases continue to spike around the state + more mandatory mask ordinances are passed, we want to take a minute to make sure everyone is up-to-date with coronavirus news and resources. Although the pandemic is dominating the media right now, it is important to be well informed and equipped during this time.
Last Thursday, Richland County, Forest Acres and the Town of Lexington passed mask ordinances, following City of Columbia’s ordinance, which was passed on June 23. All of these ordinances are now in effect and will last for 60 days. Each requires masks to be worn indoors in public + most require masks when social distancing isn’t possible outdoors.
Looking to get tested this week? Check out this map of screening and testing sites across the state from DHEC. Nervous or unsure about the process? Read about our experiences getting tested here.
Keep an eye on how you feel + consider getting tested if you begin feeling any symptoms – which DHEC lists as fever, chills, repeated shaking with chills, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, new loss of taste or smell + muscle pain or soreness.
If you do test positive for the virus, check out this resource from DHEC with guidelines for isolating yourself.
If you’re trying to explain the virus to kids, check out this activity booklet – that features coloring pages and kid-friendly information – that DHEC put together.
Stay up to date with the latest statistics here, where new cases in the state are reported daily + broken down by county.
For continued updates and resources about the COVID-19 pandemic in our community, check out our coronavirus guide here.
