The state Department of Health today reported that Hawaii set a new single-day record for COVID-19 cases.
There were 73 new cases — 68 on Oahu and five on Maui.
Today was the third consecutive day Hawaii topped its previous single-day high for coronavirus cases.
Hawaii had 60 new cases of COVID-19 Friday and 55 on Thursday.
As Hurricane Douglas approaches, across the state 625 people currently in isolation or quarantine due to exposure to someone or being positive for COVID-19 have affirmed they will shelter-in-place, according to the DOH.
With record new cases today, it’s expected the number of people in isolation or quarantine will rise by the end of the day, the DOH said.
“Thursday’s, Friday’s, and today’s numbers demonstrate the relaxation of safe practices from the Fourth of July, particularly on Oahu, may have been one primary reason for these daily new records. We’re beginning to see more cases among younger to middle-age adults; many who relay stories of attending gatherings, parties, events, or socializing at bars,” State Health Director Bruce Anderson said.
State Epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Park added, “Multiple household clusters and other clusters are associated with social interactions like Fourth of July gatherings, birthday parties, televised sports events, religious functions, work meetings, and funeral events. Our investigations and contact tracing show in many of these settings people have relaxed their physical distancing and use of facial coverings.”
While the percent of positive coronavirus in the state seems to be stable, the curve is very gradually increasing because of the positivity rate in Honolulu. Park said.
“This means the rate of new cases, particularly on Oahu, is greater than the rate of increased testing that is occurring,” she said.
However, due to the approaching storm, the DOH State Laboratories Division will not be conducting COVID-19 testing on Sunday.
Testing is expected to resume late Monday or on Tuesday.
The DOH has been testing specimens for one of the clinical labs because of a reagent supply shortage.