<strong>From staff reports</strong>

South Carolina reported 2,115 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday Dec. 8, just three days after setting a new record for daily positive cases with 2,715.

The state’s numbers are consistent with, if not higher than, the pandemic’s peak – so far--

S.C. had four confirmed deaths from COVID, bringing the state’s total during the pandemic to 4,253.

Beaufort County reported 49 new confirmed cases on Tuesday. The county is approaching a seven-day daily average of 60, almost as high as its peak in early August.

The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control is recommending people modify their holiday plans to reduce the spread of COVID-19. DHEC is encouraging all South Carolinians to get tested before and after attending a gathering or travel. But while testing is important, wearing masks and social distancing continue to be key in limiting the spread of the virus.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offer some advice for holiday planning but wants to emphasize that staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.

<strong>People who should not attend in-person holiday celebrations</strong>

People with or exposed to COVID-19 Do not host or participate in any in-person festivities if you or anyone in your household:<span class="Apple-converted-space">&nbsp;</span>

Has been diagnosed with COVID-19 and has not met the criteria for when it is safe to be around others.<span class="Apple-converted-space">&nbsp;</span>

Has symptoms of COVID-19.<span class="Apple-converted-space">&nbsp;</span>

Is waiting for COVID-19 viral test results.<span class="Apple-converted-space">&nbsp;</span>

May have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 in the last 14 days.<span class="Apple-converted-space">&nbsp;</span>

Is at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19.

<strong>
People at increased risk for severe illness</strong>

If you are at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19, or live or work with someone at increased risk of severe illness, you should:<span class="Apple-converted-space">&nbsp;</span>

Avoid in-person gatherings with people who do not live in your household.<span class="Apple-converted-space">&nbsp;</span>

Avoid larger gatherings and consider attending activities that pose lower risk (as described throughout this page) if you decide to attend an in-person gathering with people who do not live in your household.

<strong>Lower-risk activities</strong>

Lower-risk activities recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) include:

Having a small dinner with only people who live in your household.

Preparing traditional family recipes for family and neighbors, especially those at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 and delivering them in a way that doesn’t involve contact with others. Currently, CDC says there is no evidence to suggest that handling or consuming food is associated with COVID-19.

Having a virtual dinner and sharing recipes with friends and family.

Shopping online rather than in person.

Watching sports events, parades, and movies from home.

<strong>Travel tips</strong>

Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others. If you must travel, short trips by car with members of your own household with no stops along the way are considered low risk.

Those traveling longer distances by car should remember that many of their favorite “stopping places” may be closed. “Drive-through only” may also mean restrooms are closed and travelers should plan accordingly.

If you must travel, be informed of the risks involved.