March 30, 2020
COVID-19 Update #14
DHEC Reports
South Carolina is in the acceleration phase of the epidemic and additional testing will lead to more cases being reported. DHEC updates their testing site once a day.
As of this morning:
- Charleston County Positive Cases: 122
- 29455 (Kiawah, Seabrook, Johns Island) Positive Cases: 6
Residents can expect the next update Tuesday, March 31 by 5 p.m.If there is breaking news, we will release that information before our scheduled communication.
Town Council Special Call Meeting
Kiawah Town Council is meeting today (Mon. March 30) at 4 p.m regarding the impact of COVID-19 and will discuss an emergency ordinance regarding advertising of short-term rentals and social distancing. Any actions that occur will be reported. The public can virtually attend by watching on our YouTube channel here.
Quarantine Information
Last week, Governor McMaster issued an Executive Order requiring any traveler to South Carolina from the States of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and the City of New Orleans, to self-quarantine for a period of 14 days commencing from their date of arrival.
Questions have been asked of the Town since this order was issued. Following is information addressing some of the most frequently asked questions:
- This is a mandatory requirement; it is not a guideline or suggestion;
- Violation of the order risks a fine of up to $100 or imprisonment of not more than 30 days;
- This order also applies to persons who traveled to South Carolina before the issuance of the Executive Order. Their 14 days self-quarantine period commences on their date of arrival;
- Enforcement is delegated to law enforcement, which is the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office, including the Town’s Deputies;
- Quarantine requires restriction of movement from one’s place of permanent or temporary residence on the island, and requires avoiding all areas frequented by the general public including retail and grocery stores, recreational facilities, and dining and food service;
- Anyone who does not comply is placing our community’s residents at risk and exposing employees of businesses and services critical to the community. Any business establishment, and the employees of that business, within the State, and Town, may deny service to any persons acting in violation of this order;
- The Governor’s order does not prohibit entry to the Town of Kiawah Island nor prohibit persons from the affected locations from residing in the Town as long as they comply with the requirement to self-quarantine. The order does not require such persons to self-identify themselves or register with the Town or any other entity;
- Do not personally confront any person(s) that you reasonably believe is subject to, but not abiding, by the requirement to self-quarantine. If you think it necessary, please contact a Deputy through the Sheriff’s Office non-emergency number at 843-202-1700.
Services
- Essential prescription delivery is available on Tuesdays and Fridays for high risk or homebound individuals on Kiawah Island. All orders will be screened by Vincent’s Pharmacy to ensure they qualify. Call Vincent’s Pharmacy (843-243-0007) for more information.
- Harris Teeter is offering senior hours for individuals 60 years and older every Monday and Thursday from 6 a.m.– 8 a.m. Please try to reduce shopping trips to once a week.
Enforcement
Beach Patrol, Sheriff’s Office Deputies and Code Enforcement are present on the island and are regulating public congregation and enforcing all Town ordinances. Violators will be ticketed. Anyone can report a problem to the 24-hour hotline at 843-259-2137 or through the online submittal form. In an emergency, dial 911.
Dining and Grocery Delivery
Grocery Delivery
The Resort is offering grocery delivery service.
To Go Options
Local restaurants are offering delivery or curbside pickup including the resort restaurants, Freshfields Village and several at Bohicket Marina.
Medical Notice
The Town continues to stress the importance of following guidance from local public health experts to slow the spread of COVID-19. Our best defense is to follow the recommended personal hygiene and social distancing guidelines urged by DHEC and CDC.
Older adults who have severe underlying chronic medical conditions (heart or lung disease or diabetes) are at higher risk for developing serious complications from COVID-19.
Individuals that fall into this group should contact their healthcare provider early, even if they are experiencing mild symptoms.
If you develop any of the symptoms associated with the virus (fever, cough, shortness of breath) or have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19, call your primary care physician first or use virtual care services.