The state Department of Health today reported 647 new COVID-19 cases.
Of those, 87 new confirmed and probable cases were found on the Big Island.
According to data from the DOH, the state averaged 680 new cases per day Aug. 10-16
Hawaii County has a 7.3% test positivity rate, compared to a 7.5% positivity rate statewide.
Two additional COVID-related deaths also were reported today. An Oahu man and woman, both 70-79, were hospitalized and had underlying health conditions.
The DOH also announced today it is expanding its network of free community COVID-19 testing through a partnership with the National Kidney Foundation of Hawaii Consortium and independent pharmacies across the state.
On the Big Island, testing is available noon-4 p.m. Tuesdays at Kona Aquatic Center, 75-5530 Kuakini Highway, Kailua-Kona; noon-4 p.m. Saturdays at Waimea District Park, Ala Ohia Road, Waimea; and noon-4 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays at the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium, 323 Manono St., Hilo.
“DOH is working to make free testing available all across the state, especially as demand remains high,” state Health Director Dr. Libby Char said in a news release. “This program immediately increases access to free testing for neighbor island residents. We continue to urge Hawaii residents to use all the tools available to them to stop this surge and protect themselves and their families.”
Pre-registration at preventcovidhi.com is recommended.
The program augments Hawaii’s network of free community testing. A full list of testing options can be found online at HawaiiCOVID19.com/testing.