DOH Ties Viral Cluster to Hanalei Restaurant

The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) has reported a COVID-19 cluster of concern on the Island of Kaua‘i.

DOH said the cluster was associated with Tahiti Nui restaurant in Hanalei. The cluster is under investigation and to-date consists of seven confirmed cases of individuals, including both restaurant workers and diners.

Anyone who visited the Tahiti Nui restaurant from Friday, July 30 through Wednesday, Aug. 4 may have been exposed to a person with confirmed COVID-19 infection and should be tested as soon as possible. Anyone who was exposed and has symptoms should seek healthcare and notify the healthcare provider of their exposure.

“The Tahiti Nui management has been extremely cooperative with our investigation and communication, including announcing possible exposures on their social media sites,” said Dr. Janet Berreman, Kaua‘i District Health Officer. “Mahalo to the restaurant and employees for their support and concern for our community. We are making this announcement today to reach as many patrons as quickly possible.”

Masks are required indoors statewide, except when actively eating and drinking. This includes vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals and all restaurant workers.

Vaccination provides strong protection from severe disease and death, but in rare cases, people who are vaccinated can become infected and transmit disease to others. If you feel sick, get tested and stay home.

On Kaua‘i, free community testing is available at the Convention Hall in Lihue, Monday through Friday from 8 am to 3:30 pm. Free testing is also available from the county’s mobile testing van at neighborhood centers throughout the week, on a rotating schedule. Finally, testing is available through your primary care physician, a hospital, or an urgent care clinic.

Vaccinations are widely available, free and effective. Information about vaccination and testing options on Kaua‘i is available at www.kauai.gov/COVID-19.