Digital Exclusives and Features

Early data shows black Americans may be at higher risk of coronavirus

Less healthcare access, preexisting medical conditions among factors behind why coronavirus appears to hit blacks more

(Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) (CNN) —- Black Americans have more existing medical issues, less access to health care, and are more likely to work in unstable jobs — all factors that have made the coronavirus pandemic disproportionately hurt blacks more. While everyone is susceptible to Covid-19, black Americans are at higher risk, Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams said during…

SC Governor Henry McMaster issues mandatory ‘Home or Work’ order

SC Governor issues mandatory 'Home or Work' order. The order will take effect Tuesday, April 6 at 5pm

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO)–Monday, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster issued a mandatory ‘Home or Work’ order. The order will take effect Tuesday, April 6 at 5pm. McMaster says everyone under this order should stay home unless, they are working, visiting family, or recreating outdoors, or they are obtaining necessary goods and services. McMaster says there will be no additional business closings,…

Prisma Health reduces COVID-19 drive through testing hours

Health officials say a decrerase in demand is leading to reduced coronavirus (COVID-19) testing hours

Prisma Health test SiteCoronavirus Columbia, SC (WOLO) — Starting this weekend Prisma Health will change their hours for those of you interested in taking advantage of the drive through coronavirus (COVID-19) testing. Health officials say, as of right now they plan to reduce their hours of operation because of a decrease in demand, however officials say these hours will adjust…

Lexington Medical Center wants you to help bring patients smiles

An area hospital is hoping you can help bring a smile to patients faces

Image: Lexington Medical Center LEXINGTON COUNTY, S.C. (WOLO) — During the pandemic, health officials say it can be tough to be isolated from your loved ones, but it can be even harder when you are isolated and hospitalized. To help bring a little bit of joy to their patients, the Lexington Medical Center is looking for anyone who likes to…

SC DHEC offers online resources about the Coronavirus

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO)– If you are looking for local updates from health officials on the Coronavirus and updates on state cases, you can check out The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control website. The site is a resource for COVID-19. Below are some links: DHEC’s COVID-19 webpage is updated daily with a map of positive cases as well…

SC Dept. of Commerce provides online resources for businesses amid Coronavirus

SC Commerce expands online resources to assist companies in navigating the impacts of coronavirus

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO)– As the coronavirus pandemic shuts down more and more business, there are some resources for those in South Carolina, looking for help. The South Carolina Department of Commerce says in response to the closure of non-essential businesses by the Governor, they are expanding online resources to assist companies in navigating the impacts of coronavirus.  Commerce officials say…

Take-out? Delivery? Check out our ‘We’re Open’ section

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO)–Most South Carolina restaurants in our state are operating on a to-go only model.  Many of you may be asking, where can I get take out or curbside? So how do you know where to order take out from? To help you out, we here at ABC Columbia have added a “We’re Open” link on our web site. https://www.abccolumbia.com/were-open-find-local-businesses/…

SC Governor issues Executive Order closing non essential businesses

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO)– South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster issued an Executive Order closing non essential businesses to help combat the spread of coronavirus. Per the order, this is a list of businesses that will be closed:  Entertainment venues and facilities as follows: Night clubs Bowling alleys Arcades Concert venues Theaters, auditoriums, and performing arts centers Tourist attractions (including museums, aquariums,…