DOE Employee Among County’s Recent Positive COVID Cases Reported

An employee of the Department of Education tested positive for COVID-19, the Kaua‘i District Health Office reported today. The individual, identified as an adult female, remains in isolation and all close contacts are in quarantine.

This brings Kaua‘i’s current active cases to two, with eight individuals in quarantine as close contacts. Kaua‘i’s cumulative total of cases to date is now 62, and one probable case.

According to county officials, the Department of Health worked closely with school leadership over the weekend and identified no close contacts at the school. Thus far, this case has no apparent link to travel but the investigation continues.

Additionally, over the weekend an adult male resident tested positive for COVID-19 after voluntarily taking a post-travel test from the County of Kaua‘i.

According to county officials, the resident returned home from the mainland and received a quarantine exemption by testing negative prior to flying to Kaua‘i, through the State of Hawai‘i’s Safe Travels program. He is now in isolation, and one close contact is in quarantine.

“The county’s post-travel testing program adds another layer of protection for our community, and we are thankful that this resident was responsible and considerate to participate on his own accord,” said Mayor Derek S. K. Kawakami. “Although it’s not required, we encourage everyone – residents and visitors – to take a post-test especially if you have recently traveled out of state.”

The resident volunteered to take the county’s post-travel test that is currently being offered for free to all returning transpacific travelers who are Kaua‘i residents. To be eligible for the county’s free post-travel testing program, residents must have participated in the state’s pre-travel testing program and are asked to take the post-test no sooner than 72 hours after arrival.

“We know COVID-19 can cause mild or no symptoms in some people, and exposure can happen when traveling,” added Dr. Janet Berreman, Kaua‘i District Health Officer. “Getting a free test three or more days after you return from travel is a responsible thing to do to keep our community safe and healthy. Mahalo to all of the travelers who have been tested.”