Health officials and economists report signs of disease and economic recovery.

On the economic front, more of us have been able to return to work – and earn an income. Indeed.com reported 3,543 jobs are available in Lexington County.

The Department of Employment and Workforce reported the county’s unemployment rate has dropped to 7.7% with 134,758 of us employed and 11,220 unemployed in an employable pool of 145,928 people.

Home building and the stock market are up, too.

Covid-19 recovery

Health officials report the statewide recovery rate has reached 83%. That means 8,852 of 9,383 who were infected have recovered and should have the antibodies to fight off the virus.

Rising numbers of infections indicate not that the virus is spreading more rapidly but that health officials are testing more of us and getting us needed care.

DHEC reported Lexington County has 879 confirmed cases and an estimated 5,400 unreported in a population of 290,818 residents.

Columbia and Richland County reported 1,794 confirmed cases and 11,020 unreported in a population of almost 411,471 residents.

The Chronicle has not yet been able to get Lexington County recovery data from the Department of Health & Environmental Control.

At the Chronicle, we appreciate your tips on covid-19 and other news. Please send news to jerrybellune@yahoo.com and photos to rose.lexchron@gmail.com .