COVID vaccine live updates: Here’s what to know in South Carolina on Oct. 20

We’re tracking the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus and vaccines in South Carolina. Check back for updates.

More than 450 new COVID-19 cases reported in SC

At least 712,424 people have tested positive for the coronavirus and 11,533 have died in South Carolina since March 2020, according to state health officials.

The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control on Tuesday reported 474 new COVID-19 cases and two coronavirus-related deaths. There were also 139 probable cases and no probable deaths, data shows.

At least 973 people in the state were reported hospitalized with COVID-19 as of Tuesday, including 303 patients who were being treated in intensive care units and 183 who were on ventilators. About 11% of hospitalizations across the state are COVID-19-related, data shows.

As of Tuesday, 5.1% of COVID-19 tests were reported positive. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said 5% or lower means there is a low level of community spread.

Roughly 54% of South Carolinians eligible to receive a coronavirus vaccine are fully vaccinated, and nearly 62% have received at least one dose, according to health officials.

Booster shots, third dose of COVID-19 shot available in SC. What to know

As South Carolina residents prepare to roll up their sleeves for booster shots or a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, many still have questions about the process.

For one, residents should know there’s an important difference between a booster and a third dose, doctors told the Sun News. Questions about side effects and whether it’s best to mix or match booster shots with the original vaccine brand have also come up.

The Sun News consulted with several doctors to answer commons questions about getting an extra COVID-19 shot.

To learn more, read the full story here.

Richland County offers $100 incentive to get more people vaccinated

Some Richland County residents who get the COVID-19 vaccine will walk away with an extra $100 in their pocket.

In their latest effort to boost vaccination numbers in the region, county officials are giving away $100 gift cards to the first 250 people who show up to get the shot at a vaccine drive scheduled for the end of the month, The State reported.

“Through this incentive program, County Council hopes to encourage residents to get the vaccine in order to raise the vaccination rate in Richland County,” Councilwoman Yvonne McBride said in a news release. “Residents can stop in at their convenience and do their part to improve the health of our community.”

The vaccine clinic will take place Oct. 30 from 1 to 4:30 p.m. at The Meeting Place Church of Greater Columbia.

The Pfizer vaccine will be administered by employees with the Medical University of South Carolina.