LIHU’E – The Kaua’i State Department of Health District Health Office reported two additional positive cases of COVID-19 on Sunday, bringing the county’s total number of active cases to 16, and the cumulative total of cases to date at 37.
The two new cases involve a third home, but were identified and tested as a result of tracing the DOH contact of the original case.
All 16 cases are currently in isolation and all close contacts of those cases are in quarantine.
DOH announced 23 new cases of the virus on Sunday in O’ahu. The state total reached 899 accumulated cases reported since February.
In a Sunday news release from Hawaii’s COVID-19 Joint Information Center, authorities said the increase in numbers is largely due to 17 Honolulu cases all associated with attending a funeral.
Intensive contact tracing quickly identified cases, tests were conducted, and all are isolated. Contact tracing also identified six cases in Leeward O’ahu associated with known groups, and all cases are in isolation.
“It is important to celebrate life and share life events, whether it is remembering someone who passed away or meeting with others to practice a common faith, and doing so safely will protect our loved ones and the entire community,” said the state epidemiologist. Dr. Sarah Park, chief of DOH’s Division of Disease Outbreak Control.
“Safe practices that include physical distancing, wearing masks, and frequent hand washing are of critical importance during these times, and especially when we are with others outside of our daily home,” he said.
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Jessica Else, editor in chief, can be contacted at 245-0457 or [email protected].
