MONCKS CORNER, S.C.– (Friday, March 13, 2020) — Berkeley County Emergency Management officials continue to proactively prepare for cases of the coronavirus, officially called novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). President Donald Trump declared the pandemic a national emergency on Friday. Berkeley County officials continue to encourage citizens to take precautions and limit the spread of COVID-19.
Although there are currently no confirmed cases in Berkeley County, the County is preparing and carrying out coordinated efforts with multiple agencies across the Tri-County, meeting regularly with emergency management officials.
The immediate threat level locally for the virus remains low, but public health officials are continuing to advise that the public follow the proper preventative measures that have been issued by DHEC and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to stay healthy and help limit the rapid spread of the virus.
Berkeley County 911 has updated its call-taking software to include the Emergency Infectious Disease Surveyance Tool, a screening resource to identify individuals who may be experiencing coronavirus symptoms.
DHEC has also set up a Care Line for public inquiries about the virus. The number is 1-855-472-3432 and is available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays.
According to the CDC, common symptoms include fever, fatigue, cough and shortness of breath, which may appear two to 14 days after exposure to the virus. The elderly and individuals with weakened immune systems have the greatest risk of contracting the virus and are more likely to experience severe symptoms.
MUSC is offering FREE health virtual care screenings. You can call 843-792-7000 for more information, or visit https://muschealth.org/patients-visitors/coronavirus-information
Roper Hospital is also offering virtual screenings. Their virtual screenings are free from 8 a.m.- 8 p.m. https://www.rsfh.com/virtualcare/
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– Prepared by the Berkeley County Public Information Office –
