2 New COVID Cases Reported on Kaua‘i

The Kaua‘i District Health Office reported two new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday, Dec. 9.

Both cases are adult male residents with community-acquired infection. All active cases are in isolation, and one case is hospitalized on O‘ahu. Close contacts are being identified, directed to quarantine, and offered testing.

Today’s case brings the number of on-island active cases to 12, with 145 cumulative cases. Kaua‘i’s cumulative case count includes 126 confirmed locally, one probable, and 18 positive cases diagnosed elsewhere, as they received their pre-travel test results after arriving on island.

“Since the moratorium on the Safe Travels program, we have seen a shift in our cases: most are now residents, and about half are community-acquired,” said Mayor Derek S. K. Kawakami. “This means that the virus is circulating — still in small numbers — in our community.”

“Department of Health staff are actively investigating and contact-tracing all cases, and requests that residents continue to wear masks, keep distance, and avoid large gatherings,” said Kaua‘i District Health Officer Janet Berreman. “Free COVID-19 surge testing is available to the public on Sundays, but anyone who has symptoms should talk to their healthcare provider for testing — don’t wait for Sunday testing if you have symptoms.”

Mayor’s Emergency Rule 23 is in effect, which sets a temporary moratorium of the Safe Travels program. Under this rule, effective Dec. 2, all incoming travelers, including mainland, inter-island residents, and visitors, are under a 14-day mandatory quarantine.

“Kaua‘i is fortunate to remain in Tier 4, with most activities open and minimal restrictions in place,” Kawakami said. “With continued care in the coming weeks, our community can support local businesses and enjoy the holidays in good health.”

The county’s modified quarantine program remains in place for critical infrastructure workers, essential medical travel, or other special circumstances. To apply for a modified quarantine, visit www.kauai.gov/COVID-19 and click on the “modified quarantine request” button at the top of the page.

For more information on the county’s COVID-19 response, visit Kauai.gov/COVID-19.

For more information on the state’s COVID-19 cases or the state’s Safe Travels program, visit hawaiicovid19.com.