DOH reports 55 new COVID-19 cases

Fifty-five new cases of COVID-19 reported in Hawaii today is the highest one-day count since the state Department of Health began tracking cases in late February.

According to the state, 50 cases were reported in Honolulu, three on Hawaii Island and two on Maui.

The previous highest one-day count was on July 11 with 42 cases.

An elderly Oahu woman also became the 26th Hawaii resident to die from the virus. Her death was reported to the DOH late Wednesday.

“These cases represent people from all walks of life and varied professions, indicating the apparent challenges of maintaining safe practices is widespread across the state,” state Health Director Bruce Anderson said in a news release.

State epidemiologist Sarah Park said most cases are a result of people socializing with work colleagues, extended family or friends in multiple settings without wearing face coverings or distancing.

“I continue to hope all in our community will maintain safe practices, but unfortunately the persistence of new cases would argue against that,” Park said.

People should consistently practice physical distancing of six-feet or more when around anyone outside of one’s household, wear masks when in public or unable to distance, wash hands frequently and stay home when sick.

“Unfortunately, if we can’t get these numbers headed in the right direction, we may be facing the re-implementation of restrictions,” Anderson said. “No one wants that to happen and this is why it is so critical that everyone does their part every day, every place in practicing safety for the sake of the health of all in Hawaii.”