The Hawaii Department of Health released its latest update on COVID-19 cases, reporting 1,263 new infections over the past week. This brings the total number of cases in the state since the start of the pandemic to 382,833. Sadly, four more deaths were also reported, bringing the state’s death toll to 1,858.
The state’s seven-day average of new COVID-19 cases is currently at 122 per day, which is nearly double the 66 per day reported on March 22. Additionally, the average positivity rate has increased to 8.9%, compared to 5.2% on March 22.
It’s important to note that the seven-day average is based on data from March 18 to 24, while the week-over-week infection count is based on March 21 to 27. This discrepancy is due to the possibility of unreported cases from the most recent three days.
These numbers may not fully capture the true extent of the pandemic as they do not include unreported home test kit results, which are estimated to be several times higher.
The rate of cases per 100,000 people in the state has risen to 8.6, up from 5.1 the previous week. The breakdown of new cases by island shows 919 on Oahu, 129 on Hawaii Island, 119 on Maui, 87 on Kauai, and five on Molokai. Additionally, four infections were reported among Hawaii residents who were out of state.
According to the Hawaii Department of Health, 78.7% of the total population has completed the primary series of COVID vaccinations, while 301,428 residents, representing about 27% of the eligible population, have received the updated booster.
Currently, there are 53 COVID patients in Hawaii hospitals, with six in intensive care. The average number of daily hospitalizations over the past week has increased to 52, compared to 44 the previous week.
During a livestream conversation, Tim Brown, an infectious disease expert from the East-West Center in Manoa, expressed concern over the significant increase in case counts and positivity rate. He emphasized the need to monitor trends in the coming weeks and urged caution, especially for older or immunocompromised residents. Brown recommended that they seek Paxlovid from their doctors if they test positive for COVID.
The latest variant report from the Department of Health reveals that the XBB.1.5 variant accounts for at least 79% of circulating variants in the state. This variant is also dominant in the United States. Another variant, XBB.1.9.1, is being separately tracked and makes up about 7% of circulating variants in Hawaii.
As the situation continues to evolve, it is crucial for everyone to remain vigilant and follow public health guidelines. COVID-19 is still a significant threat to our community, and we must take the necessary precautions to protect ourselves and others.
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