So far California, Washington state and New York are bearing the brunt of the COVID19 / Coronavirus outbreak and at the moment the state of South Carolina has yet to experience a pandemic, however, that does not mean we won’t experience disruption in our communities. So, out of an abundance of caution, I am urging each of us to do our part in protecting our families, our seniors and our communities.

On Friday I made the decision to postpone all public meetings and gatherings/events in my role as a state legislator and candidate for SC-01. I will re-evaluate this decision in two weeks time.

I feel it is incumbent upon us to set an example during uncertain times with the goal being to reduce the opportunity for an outbreak in our respective communities. Let’s look at other areas around the world who are suffering and do what we can now to prevent that from happening here at home.

If you’re able, please join me in temporarily taking similar precautions. Right now, we as a community, have the opportunity to slow this thing down by social distancing and taking certain preventive measures. All of us should try to do our part to “flatten the curve.”

I would also like to thank SC DHEC and the Governor for keeping the public abreast of new and presumptive cases. If you feel sick, please stay home to prevent the spread of a potentially serious illness.

Here is a collection of information on the outbreak with helpful links so you can stay up-to-date:

THE LATEST
1. Gov. Henry McMaster closing schools starting Monday, March 16th through the end of March

2. More than 20 cases in Kershaw, Spartanburg, Beaufort, Charleston, Horry, Lexington and Lancaster counties

3. FREE SCREENINGS are being provided statewide by MUSC virtual/telemedicine, no appointment, no wait, accessible 24/7: musc.care

4. DHEC Care Line may be called at 1-855-472-3432 from 8am – 6pm x 7 days a week

5. Symptoms include: fever, respiratory, cough, flulike symptoms

6. Older adults (60 years and older) are more susceptible to the virus with the highest risk of illness and death, particularly if you have underlying health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, chronic medical conditions, etc.

EXTRA PRECAUTIONS
We should all consider taking to reduce the risk of being exposed:

  1. Social Distancing
  2. Wash hands
  3. Use hand sanitizer (with 60% alcohol)
  4. Avoid shaking hands
  5. Wipe down surfaces to clean and disinfect
  6. Consider traveling by car vs plane
  7. Avoid international travel and consider self quarantining if you have recently traveled back from countries or communities where the virus has spread
  8. Avoid large crowds, events and gatherings (this includes restaurants or places where you cannot physically be 6 feet apart from the next person)
  9. Work from home when possible
  10. Have groceries delivered (if you’re able to) or do curbside pick up (some grocery chains are offering this service)
  11. If you feel sick, pls stay home and use MUSC’s telemedicine/virtual doctor to diagnose your symptoms, it’s FREE

SOCIAL MEDIA UPDATES
Please follow:

@CDCgov
@scdhec
@MUSChealth
@henrycmcmaster
@scgovernorpress
@postandcourier
@islandpacket

HELPFUL LINKS
Post and Courier COVID-19 Dashboard
Social Distancing: This Is Not A Snow Day
CoronaVirus: Why You Must Act Now
Get Screened For FREE By MUSC.CARE

IN THE MEANTIME

Legislative Contact Info
nancymace@schouse.gov
843.212.6717

Campaign Contact Info
nmace@nancymace.org
843.580.6223

Let’s do our part to continue to support local businesses, whether it’s ordering takeout, a gift card or ordering online when possible. And lastly, I’m personally stocking up on sangria and Titos vodka, just in case!

Be smart. Be sensible. Be healthy. Be safe.

Sincerely,

Nancy

ILLUSTRATION: SAM WHITNEY; CDC