SC health experts give update on vaccination effort, rollout


SC health experts give update on vaccination effort, rollout

The state remains in what’s known as Phase 1a of the rollout.

COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina health leaders will give an update on the vaccine rollout in the state, including any updates on a timeline on when the vaccinations could expand to other groups.

DHEC will give a briefing at 2 p.m. via a teleconference, which you can watch in the video player above. 

At present, DHEC says a total of 915,751 people have been given doses of the vaccine. Of those, 619,884 have received one dose, while 248,924 have gotten two doses. 

Presently, the two vaccines on the market–one by Pfizer, the other by Moderna–require a two dose series to be considered fully vaccinated. 

RELATED: Fauci: Whatever COVID vaccine is available, take it

An FDA panel on Friday is evaluating a third vaccine created by Johnson & Johnson. This vaccine requires only one dose, although it’s effectiveness is 66 percent, lower than the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine’s 94 percent. However, it has been shown to be nearly 90 percent effective at stopping serious complications including severe disease and death. 

RELATED: FDA panel to review Johnson & Johnson single-dose COVID vaccine

Currently, only people over the age of 65 and healthcare workers can get the vaccine. However, DHEC’s new director. Dr. Edward Simmer, said an expansion of those eligible to get the vaccine could start in mid to late March. 

DHEC has set up a website and a hotline to find vaccine locations.



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