March 17, 2020
COVID-19 Update #4
Today, the Kiawah Emergency Management Committee, which includes representatives from each island entity, participated in the Tri-County conference call with the Charleston County Emergency Management Department, regarding the impact of Coronavirus/COVID-19.
There has been an increase in the number of cases in South Carolina and more cases are expected. Earlier today, it was reported that two additional cases tested positive. If confirmed, that would raise the count to three cases in Charleston County. There are no confirmed or suspected cases on Kiawah or Seabrook.
The Kiawah Emergency Management Committee wants the community to know that there are strong and prudent efforts being made to ensure all precautionary measures are taken on the island.
Rental agencies, property managers, and Kiawah Island Golf Resort properties have all elevated their cleaning frequencies and disinfectant procedures designed to address a broad spectrum of viruses, including COVID-19.
The island’s restaurant industry is incorporating recommended safe practices, including reduced occupancies in dining rooms, suspension of communal stations, limiting touch transaction opportunities, and elevated disinfectant procedures. Some restaurants have initiated pickup services to reduce foot traffic.
Grocery and food outlets are making every effort to replenish supplies, but shoppers should expect lower than normal inventory levels. Residents may have to travel off the island for supplies in between deliveries. Online shopping for curbside grocery service is still available across the county but limited in the amount of orders accepted per day. Placing orders for a future date is advised.
Island wide, all large events have been canceled or postponed. Essential services and security personnel are fully operational.
With this combined effort, the island’s Emergency Management Committee will remain vigilant and transparent should the need arise for further action.
Our first line of defense against potential impact is for everyone to follow the recommended prevention hygiene practices and follow social distancing guidelines. Residents can additionally prepare by creating a household plan of action.
Governor McMaster is anticipated to hold a press conference today at 4 p.m. that will be broadcast on local news outlets and www.scemd.org
Residents can expect daily communication from the Town by 4 p.m. If there is breaking news, we will release that information before our scheduled communication. Updates will be available on our website, email notifications, and social media.
Island Update
- The Community Association’s gate, security personnel, and pass office are fully operational. Member operations has shifted to online and phone service. Members are encouraged to email memberservices@kica.us first to resolve member service issues. Phones will be monitored. Updates will be provided on their website.
- Freshfields Village updates regarding store and restaurant operations will be posted here and event notices will be posted here. Harris Teeter is currently open from the adjusted hours of 6 a.m. – 9 p.m. daily.
- Beachwalker County Park is open. Visitors are asked to take preventative action when coming to the parks, including self-monitoring for illness along with practicing good hand hygiene and social distancing.
- Commercial access to the island remains open.
- Essential services and Town staff remain available.
- Garbage and recycling collection will operate on a normal schedule. However, this is subject to any closure at the Charleston County Bee’s Ferry Landfill site.
COVID-19 Medical Reminders
Medical Notice
Current data shows, older adults who have severe underlying chronic medical conditions (heart or lung disease or diabetes) are at higher risk for developing severe 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,
Virtual Care
The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) is providing virtual care COVID-19 screenings, which can be accessed here. Use code COVID19 when you log in. MUSC has set up a drive through test site at Citadel Mall. The public cannot voluntarily show up at this site without a referral from their virtual care service.
Roper St. Francis Healthcare is also offering virtual care screenings from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Learn more
Prevention
- Wash your hands frequently and use hand sanitizer.
- Cover your cough and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Sanitize commonly touched surfaces and objects regularly with these recommended disinfectant products.
- Avoid close contact with people who show signs of respiratory illness.
- Stay home if you are sick.
- The CDC does not suggest people who are well to wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19. Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the virus to others.