State health officials are issuing a strong reminder to the public to remain vigilant in the face of rising COVID-19 numbers, particularly as hospitalizations continue to surge.
According to the Hawaii Department of Health, there has been a seven-day average of 128 new cases, with the statewide average positivity rate increasing from 12.0% to 15.5% in the past week. Additionally, for the fourth consecutive week, the number of COVID-19 patients admitted to hospitals has been on the rise, with a seven-day average of 103 per day reported. This is a significant increase from the 47 per day in early July and marks the first time the average has surpassed 100 per day since September of last year.
These rising COVID-19 hospital admissions in Hawaii mirror the trend occurring across the United States. Both Honolulu and Maui counties have hospital admission rates of 10.4 per 100,000, placing them in the medium-risk category according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Another concerning indicator is the percentage of emergency department visits for COVID-19, which has also increased and is considered moderate at 3.0% to 4.4%.
In response to these alarming statistics, the Department of Health is urging the public to take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others from COVID-19, especially as hospitals on Oahu and Maui are already dealing with the aftermath of devastating wildfires. Health Director Dr. Kenneth Fink emphasizes the importance of preserving hospital capacity and preventing hospitalizations due to COVID-19. While most individuals experience mild illness, taking personal steps such as wearing a high-quality, well-fitting mask like an N95 in public indoor spaces or congregate settings, self-testing before visiting high-risk individuals, and staying up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccinations can help reduce the risk of severe infection and further transmission of the virus.
Additionally, individuals who are aged 50 and older or at higher risk should discuss treatment options, such as Paxlovid, with their healthcare provider to reduce the risk of hospitalization or death.
It is worth noting that the World Health Organization has classified the omicron subvariant EG.5, which is currently the dominant strain in the U.S., as a variant of interest. However, there is no evidence suggesting that it leads to more severe infections.
Looking ahead, federal authorities are planning to release an updated COVID-19 vaccine in the fall, specifically targeting the XBB strains.
The impact of the wildfires on healthcare facilities in Maui is evident, with Maui Memorial Medical Center providing treatment to patients affected by burns, smoke inhalation, and other trauma-related injuries resulting from the evacuations. As of Thursday evening, the medical center has admitted six patients in-house, none of whom are in the ICU. Some patients have been transferred to Oahu for specialized services related to fire-related injuries.
Maui’s healthcare providers, including Hawaii Pacific Health and The Queen’s Health Systems, are also treating several patients from Maui and Hawaii island due to the wildfires.
It is essential for everyone to remain informed, cautious, and proactive in their efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19 and support those affected by the wildfires.
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