A worsening situation, according to five Upstate hospital systems

Five Upstate South Carolina hospital systems took part in a news conference today to demonstrate the worsening rate of COVID-19 infection, and the need for the unvaccinated to take advantage of the shots that can protect individuals and all with whom they are in close contact.  The news conference started with remarks by Dr. Surabhi Gaur, chief medical officer of Bon Secour in Greenville.  She said so far there are nearly 700 thousand confirmed or probable coronavirus cases and 10 thousand deaths.  Yet, the statewide vaccination rate is not yet 50%.  Dr. Wendell James of Prisma Heath Upstate reported that by July 2 this summer, Prisma was caring for 12 COVID patients and today that number is 436.  He said of the 436 virus patients, 410 are unvaccinated.  Besides taking advantage of the vaccine, James urges everyone to remember and practice simple sanitary habits such as frequent hand washing and keeping a safe distance from others.  Also taking part was AnMed Health’s Dr. Brad Mock, who gave a status report on COVID-19 status in AnMed’s facilities in Anderson County.