New data indicates local mask ordinances have helped slow the covid-19 spread.

“This new data shows us what we already knew – wearing face masks works,” said SC epidemiologist. Linda Bell.

“We’re strongly supportive of these local leaders’ initiatives.”

The SC Emergency Management Division's updated map shows the counties and municipalities that currently have mask requirements.

It's available on the home page of www.scemd.org .

SCEMD’s map shows jurisdictions where masks are required by ordinance and where masks have been recommended by proclamation from local elected 

An analysis of local mask ordinances shows:

• As of this week, nearly 40% of residents – about 2 million people – live where masks are required.
• Areas with mask requirements have shown a 46.3% greater decrease in cases in the 4 weeks after the requirements began.

“We will be in a much better position in 4 to 6 weeks if South Carolinians practice physical distancing and use a mask,” Dr. Bell said. 

• Areas with mask requirements have an overall 15.1% decline in cases.

This is an overall decrease of 34.6 cases per 100,000 people from before to after the mask requirements.

• In the same time, areas without mask requirements have an overall increase of 30.4% in cases.

That's an average increase of 24.1 cases per 100,000 people compared to areas with mask requirements.