Gauging the surge locally and statewide

State health officials are scheduled this afternoon to release the latest South Carolina COVID-19 numbers, for a three-day period to cover Thursday through Saturday.  On Wednesday last week, the latest day for which DHEC numbers were available, 796 new cases had been confirmed across the state.  There were an additional 15 deaths, including two Pickens County residents.  The latest test positivity was 7.3%.  Oconee’s public schools let out Friday for the Christmas and New Year’s holidays.  The latest school district tracking page numbered 77 cases in December; 56 students, 21 employees.  For the month, there were no class or school closings.