Coronavirus update: Increase in South Carolina, Georgia cases

There are now six confirmed cases of coronavirus in South Carolina, along with six other potential cases.

Of the 12 total, eight are in Kershaw County. Lancaster County has two cases and the other two are in Charleston and Spartanburg Counties, respectively.

According to the Lowcountry's WCSC news station, though only half of the 12 total cases are confirmed, "DHEC treats all presumptive positives as cases of COVID-19."

Georgia now has 31 total cases, with 12 confirmed and 19 awaiting final confirmation from the CDC, and one death attributed to the virus.

The 67-year-old man, who was diagnosed on Mar. 7, passed this afternoon. Officials said he had unrelated health issues that may have contributed.

Officials recommend regular hand washing with hot water and anti-bacterial soap, along with avoiding touching your face.

Individuals who show any sign of the illness--fever, cough or shortness of breath--should call their primary doctor immediately, however minor the symptoms seem.

Adults over 60 and those with chronic illnesses are especially at risk and should avoid crowds, unnecessary travel and physical contact with anyone who may have had close proximity to a carrier.