x
Breaking News
More () »

South Carolina to give 1st responders virus address data

The secure tool will only be available to first responders, who argue the information could help protect them.
Credit: WLTX
File photo

COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina public health officials are creating a statewide database of addresses of known positive COVID-19 cases, a secure tool only made available to first responders who have argued the information could help protect them. 

RELATED: Coronavirus in South Carolina: Free app tracks Midlands restaurants, food trucks in service during COVID-19

Nick Davidson is acting director of public health for the Department of Health and Environmental Control. He says the matrix goes online next week and comes in response to local officials' complaints that first responders were being left potentially vulnerable to the disease and also needed that information to conserve protective gear that is in short supply. 

RELATED: DHEC: 261 new cases, 5 new deaths from coronavirus

Health officials said Thursday that COVID-19 has now spread to all 46 South Carolina counties.

Before You Leave, Check This Out