City of Charleston takes precautionary steps regarding coronavirus

To date, no cases of coronavirus have been detected in the state of South Carolina or any of the immediately surrounding states. However, as a precautionary measure, today Mayor John Tecklenburg and city of Charleston leaders consulted with federal, state and regional officials including representatives of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), the U.S. Coast Guard and the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) on the situation related to the coronavirus.

In addition, city department heads and officials are working to review and update city plans, policies and procedures to reflect all current recommendations and best practices.

CBP and the U.S. Coast Guard are monitoring cruise ships arriving in the Port of Charleston and empowered to take appropriate steps with regard to public safety.

Current CDC recommendations for prevention follow normal seasonal flu guidelines, including washing hands, covering all coughs, staying home when sick and appropriately disposing of tissues and similar items.

The city’s Health and Wellness Advisory Committee will meet on Wednesday, March 4 at 9 a.m. in the Human Resources Training Room, located on the third floor at 75 Calhoun Street, to receive a coronavirus update from DHEC Medical Director Dr. Katy Richardson.

Mayor Tecklenburg said, “While no cases of the virus have been identified in the state of South Carolina, we are working closely with our federal, state and regional partners, as well as area medical professionals and others, to ensure that Charleston is fully prepared as this situation continues to evolve.”