28 new COVID-19 cases on O’ahu; Health Researchers Seek Bar Sponsors to Track Contacts | Maui now

Track contacts. File courtesy background photo.

Public health authorities from the state Department of Health are advising anyone who has been a patron at two bars in Honolulu to step forward and contact their doctors for follow-up. This is to facilitate COVID-19 contact locating efforts on the island of Oʻahu.

The two bars involved are:

• Brix & Bones located at 1217 Hopaka Street; and
• Arena 808 located at 1020 Keeaumoku Street.

Health officials say the visitation period is July 16-26. So far, five cases of COVID-19 have been associated with exposure to the virus in these establishments. Additionally, up to seven positive cases are potentially associated with these groups, according to new information compiled by the state Department of Health.

State epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Park said: “Given the conditions associated with this group, we are concerned that there are more people exposed than can be identified through our investigations. In the interest of public health, we are asking anyone who has been to any of these bars during the 10-day period to see their healthcare provider to consider getting tested for COVID-19. ”

Park added that the troubling findings discerned by the researchers include inconsistent use of masks, physical distancing and other operations, which are not consistent with current county rules.

The news has sparked DOH reminders asking the public to avoid being in large groups, especially without masks and physical estrangement. The department continues to investigate a group associated with related funeral events, in which at least 36 cases have been confirmed.

The number of new COVID-19 cases reported declined today, after four days of high case counts, including three consecutive record days; however, department officials say this is likely due to a decrease in laboratory reports because private laboratories did not perform late work shifts and DOH’s State Laboratories Division closed Sunday due to the threat of a hurricane.