Restaurant Employee Relief Fund
The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) has created a Restaurant Employee Relief Fund to help restaurant employees that are experiencing hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Restaurant employees who are financially impacted by COVID-19 will be eligible to apply for a grant.
The grant is a one-time $500 dollar check to use towards housing, transportation, utilities, child-care, groceries, medical bills and/or student loans.
Grants will be made on a first-come-first-served basis. These grants will be subject to the availability of funds.
Please click on this link for more information.
COVID-19 Daily Update: 4/6/2020
COVID-19 Daily Update: 4/5/2020
COVID-19 Daily Update: 4/4/2020
HAWAI‘I COVID-19 JOINT INFORMATION CENTER DAILY NEWS DIGEST
April 4, 2020
Department of Health:
Fourth Death is East O‘ahu Adult
An East O‘ahu adult male, over 65-years-old, is the 4th person to die from COVID-19. The individual passed this morning, and based on preliminary information, this case was travel-related in that the person may have been exposed to someone who had traveled. He had been hospitalized. The Department of Health offers its deep condolences to the family and friends of the individual at this difficult and sad time.
Two minors are among the 32 new cases of COVID-19 being reported today. The majority of cases reported since tracking began on Feb. 28 are related to travel (12 today and 184 to date). Community spread is identified in one (1) new case today and in twenty (20) cases to-date. The risk factor in 19 cases today and 147 of the total cases remains unknown. There are now a total of 351 presumptive or confirmed cases in the state.
Hawai‘i Tourism Authority:
Airline Arrivals Up Slightly
Yesterday, 628 people arrived in Hawai‘i including 94 visitors and 239 residents. That’s up slightly from Thursday. The state’s 14-day mandatory self-quarantine started last week for all passengers arriving in Hawai‘i from out of state and was expanded to include interisland travelers. This table shows the number of people who arrived by air from out of state yesterday and does not include interisland travel.
https://www.hawaiitourismauthority.org/media/4417/040420-passenger-count-press-release.pdf
Department of Defense:
Brig. Gen Moses Kaoiwi Jr. Named Joint Task Force Commander
Maj. Gen. Kenneth S. Hara has named Brig. Gen. Moses Kaoiwi Jr. as the Hawai‘i National Guard (HING) Joint Task Force (JTF) Commander. The JTF was last activated in 2018 during the Kīlauea lava flow and two tropical storms. Some of the support that the HING has been providing includes: assistance to the Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency in planning and Emergency Operations Center activities & support to the State of Hawai‘i Joint Information Center to help communicate accurate health and safety information to people. Additionally, the HING is supporting the Hawai‘i Healthcare Emergency Management with warehouse support for receiving, conducting inventories, and repackaging medical equipment, supplies and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) from the National Stockpile. Future support will include airport medical screening, law enforcement support, county emergency management support, healthcare support and more.
Department of the Attorney General:
AG Asks VA to Suspend Deadlines and Collections for Veterans
Attorney General Clare E. Connors has joined 22 other attorneys general to urge the U.S. Dept. of Veteran Affairs to suspend benefits claims deadlines and debt collection activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the current situation, unemployment has skyrocketed, and veterans are losing their jobs, making it difficult for them to make debt payments. In a letter to the VA, the coalition of AGs argues that the department’s continued enforcement of deadlines and collections is putting veterans in financial danger and increasing their risk of losing essential VA benefits that they rely on for basic necessities like food and housing.
https://ag.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Letter-to-VA-re.-COVID-19.pdf
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers:
USACE Continues Evaluation of Facilities for Alternate Care
The Honolulu District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers continues initial planning and site assessments of facilities across the state for potential use as alternate care facilities (ACFs). Locations are chosen by the state and so far the USACE District and engineering assessment team has looked at sites on O‘ahu, Maui and Hawai‘i Island. This week they evaluated locations in Hilo and Kailua-Kona. Lt. Col. Kathryn Sanborn, Honolulu District Commander explained, “The analysis provides essential information to the state so they can make informed decisions about next steps for the health and wellness of the community. Lt. Col. Sanborn is expected to give an update on the conversion of facilities to ACFs at the governor’s daily news briefing on Monday.
https://www.usace.army.mil/Coronavirus/Alternate-Care-Sites/
Hawai‘i State House of Representatives:
Select Committee on COVID-19 Schedules Third Informational Briefing
The House Select Committee on COVID-19 Economic and Financial Preparedness has scheduled its third informational briefing on the economic impacts of the crisis on Hawai‘i on Monday, April 6, beginning at 10 a.m. To comply with physical distancing restrictions to prevent the spread of coronavirus, the briefing is not open to the public and no public testimony will be accepted. The hearing will be available statewide on community television: ‘Olelo, Nā Leo TV, Akakū and Hō‘ike Community Television. Livestreaming is available at:
https://olelo.org/ or http://olelo.granicus.com/ViewPublisher.php?view_id=31
For more information about the committee and to see related documents go to
https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/specialcommittee.aspx?comm=cov&year=2020.
Dan Dennison
Lead Public Information Officer
Hawaii COVID-19 Joint Information Center
Senior Communications Manager
Hawaii Dept. of Land & Natural Resources
Communications Office
(808) 587-0396
COVID-19 Daily Update: 4/3/2020
HAWAI‘I COVID-19 JOINT INFORMATION CENTER DAILY NEWS DIGEST
April 3, 2020
Office of the Governor:
Governor Ige’s Messages
Today, our community received more tragic news of the passing of a third Hawai‘i resident from the COVID-19 virus. I want to extend my condolences to the family and friends of this individual. Together, with all of Hawai‘i we share their loss and express our deepest sympathy and support.
This is the second Friday of my statewide state-at-home mandate. I know this is not getting easier. As I have said before, unfortunately, it is going to get worse before it gets better. With the number of positive COVID-19 cases in Hawai‘i increasing every day and the heartbreaking loss of three of our fellow residents, we all need to remain vigilant and do our part in stopping the spread of this virus and flatten the curve in our state.
Options to Prevent Overcrowding of Prisons
Governor Ige has asked the President to allow Hawai‘i to temporarily transfer state inmates to the Federal Detention Center in Honolulu. The state has a long-standing contract to temporarily house inmates at the federal facility, but currently it is not accepting inmate transfers, even though it is not at full capacity.
Department of Health:
Third COVID-19 Death Travel-Related
The third death from COVID-19 was as an elderly adult O‘ahu resident who had been hospitalized in critical condition on life support for several weeks after traveling to Washington state. DOH reports 34 new COVID-19 cases today -- all are adults. The majority of cases are residents and two (2) are visitors. The number of Maui County cases includes the first positive case on Molokai. This case may be travel related and the individual has been transported to Oʻahu for care. There are now a total of 319 presumptive or confirmed cases in the state.
Additional Guidance on Masks
Based on recent guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and recommendations from county mayors and the Senate Special Committee on COVID-19, Gov. Ige and the Hawai‘i Dept. of Health and the Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency are formulating a statewide policy on the use of facemasks. Although there is no current data to demonstrate that homemade, cloth masks are effective for individual protection, it is prudent to urge everyone that wearing a fabric mask can help prevent the spread of infection to others, when the mask is worn by someone who already is infected with the virus that causes COVID-19.
Dr. Bruce Anderson, Director of the Dept. of Health said, “Many of us may be walking around unaware that we may be carrying coronavirus and when we cough, sneeze, and to a lesser degree, even speak, cloth masks may block infectious droplets from spreading. Protection is maximized when facemasks are used consistently and properly to avoid contaminating the hands or face of someone wearing one.” Anderson added that fabric masks should be replaced when they become moist and washed after each use.
Hawai‘i Tourism Authority:
Hotels for Heroes
Hawai‘i’s health care workers and first responders have been working tirelessly on the front lines to help people throughout the state during this COVID-19 pandemic, and may need to temporarily separate from their families to keep safe and rest. The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA), the Hawai‘i Visitors and Convention Bureau (HVCB), and the Hawai‘i Lodging and Tourism Association (HLTA) have developed the Hotels for Heroes program that will provide complimentary rooms for health care workers and first responders during this crisis. State tourism dollars will be used to offset the hotel room costs.
Airline Arrivals Continue to Drop
On Thursday 543 people arrived at state airports and of that number only 89 were visitors. Most of the passengers were returning residents. The state’s 14-day, mandatory self-quarantine order is for all out-of-state arrivals and interisland travelers, unless exempted.
https://www.hawaiitourismauthority.org/media/4415/040320-passenger-count-press-release.pdf
Department of Defense:
National Guard Standing up This Weekend
The Hawai‘i National Guard will soon begin assisting the Dept. of Transportation at airports across the state to conduct passenger medical screening and to help with administrative paperwork. The guard is made-up of soldiers and airmen who are all members of the community. This means, they understand first-hand the direct impacts of this pandemic and now can provide specific capabilities to help reduce some of these impacts. There are currently 130 active guardsmen. An additional 162 are being called up for active duty, bringing the total to 292.
Hawai‘i State House of Representatives:
State Capitol to Remained Closed Through April 30
In an effort to maintain consistency with the governor’s stay-at-home work orders, House Speaker Scott K. Saiki announced that the Hawai‘i State Capitol will remain closed, except for those performing necessary functions. Representatives will determine their own office hours and staffing needs based on their respective circumstances, with staff who remain at home, working from home.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1suqIyXllS_rcT1j9pMNHuwGcvCXFTMRUnLC2ulk0edU/edit?usp=sharing
Hawai‘i State Senate:
Senate Special Committee on COVID-19 Meets
The six State Senators of the Special Committee on COVID-19 continued meeting today to assess and advise the Senate regarding plans and procedures for state departments. The committee heard from Governor Ige’s Chief of Staff, the Dept. of Human Resources and Development, the Dept. of Agriculture and the Dept. of Education.
Media Contacts:
Hawai‘i COVID-19 Joint Information Center
Phone: 808.354-4263
Email: hawaiicovid19@gmail.com
COVID-19 Daily Update: 4/2/2020
HAWAI‘I COVID-19 JOINT INFORMATION CENTER DAILY NEWS DIGEST
April 2, 2020
Office of the Governor:
Governor Ige’s Message on Second COVID-19 Death
Today, our community received the tragic news of the passing of a second Hawai‘i resident from the COVID-19 virus. Dawn and I express our deepest condolences to the victim’s family and friends. As we come together with expressions of sympathy and support – we must also remember to help each other, to protect your health and the health of loved ones and your community. Let’s all do our part to get Hawai‘i through this challenging time.
Community Connections Live Chat with Gov. Ige & Dr. Sarah Park
If you missed today’s Facebook Live discussion between Gov. Ige and Hawai‘i State Epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Park, you can watch it here:
https://www.facebook.com/GovernorDavidIge/videos/231887801503699/
Aloha Spirit Alive and Well During COVID-19 Crisis
Helping Hands Hawai‘i is not just the name of a local non-profit organization, it embodies the giving spirit that our island state is famous for, particularly in great times of need, like the current COVID-19 pandemic. With unemployment soaring, businesses shuttering their doors and government and community resources being stretched to their limits, many of Hawai‘i’s most vulnerable and underserved populations are most in need of helping hands. To support the opening of the Ka‘aahi emergency shelter in Iwilei, Helping Hands Hawai‘i is donating flat sheets, blankets, pillows, kitchenware, coffee cups, chairs and soap to equip the 26 units that will be available to families in need, homeless individuals or people who contract the coronavirus and have no other housing. The shelter has 18 three-bedroom units and 8 two-bedroom units capable of housing up to 52 people. Anyone interested in helping please visit:
Hawai‘i State Judiciary:
Supreme Court Appoints Special Master
The Hawaii Supreme Court issued an order today addressing two pending petitions filed by the State Office of the Public Defender regarding the release or changes in the conditions of confinement of inmates amid concerns of a potential COVID-19 outbreak in Hawaii's correctional centers and facilities. In its order, the court consolidated the two petitions and appointed retired Intermediate Court of Appeals (ICA) Judge Daniel R. Foley as Special Master to work with the parties in a collaborative and expeditious manner to address the issues raised in the petitions, and to recommend a resolution while protecting public health and safety. An initial summary report from the Special Master is due by April 9, 2020.
Department of Transportation:
Want to Know about Traffic?
HDOT has begun sharing traffic volume data on major state routes during the stay-at-home period associated with the COVID-19 crisis. Once the crisis ends, the department will continue to update data as an economic indicator. The data now is helping to verify the capabilities of highways to accommodate extended lane closure hours and to provide general data on compliance with the Governor’s Emergency Proclamations.
Department of Land and Natural Resources:
STATE SMALL BOAT HARBOR AND OTHER RESTROOMS COULD CLOSE AGAIN
Last Wednesday, all DLNR Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DOBOR) restrooms statewide at state small boat harbors (SBH) and boat ramps reopened. Since then, vandalism, destruction and filth has occurred at these public restroom facilities and criminal activities at these sites have scared away individuals trying to use these them. Toilet paper has been stolen from all bathrooms and almost all have had their dispensers broken. At least one restroom facility has been closed due to the toilet being stuffed with materials. Currently, Wai’anae SBH is not facing the destruction and disregard that other SBH restrooms are experiencing. The Pu’uhonua o Wai’anae and Hui Aloha asked DOBOR to open bathrooms and have offered to assist in maintaining them and caring for them. The two community groups have set up bathroom brigades to curb vandalism and ensure facilities there are stocked with supplies. Under their stewardship the Wai’anae SBH restrooms are otherwise spotless. However, because of vandalism at night, DLNR in consultation with the Pu’uhonua, will be closing the Wai’anae restrooms at 4:00 p.m. daily. If any community groups would like to help for any DLNR restrooms or other public comfort stations please contact the Behavioral Health and Homelessness Statewide Unified Response Group (BHH-SURG) at:
https://health.hawaii.gov/camhd/bhhsurg-covid19-guidance/
https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/blog/2020/04/02/nr20-043/
State Cancels Lana‘i Axis Deer Hunt Due To COVID-19 Risks
The 2020 deer rifle season within the Lana‘i Cooperative Game Management Area, is being cancelled due to concerns over the spread of COVID-19. The season was scheduled to run through May 17, 2020. The DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) reports efforts are underway to notify hunters who are impacted by this cancellation.
A new date for the hunt has not been set, but DOFAW noted that it will make every effort to provide an Axis deer hunting opportunity later this the year if the risk of spreading the coronavirus is no longer a threat. The Lana‘i deer hunting season is very popular, bringing hundreds of visitors to the island from in-state and out-of-state. With both domestic and interisland travel restricted and passengers under mandatory self-quarantine measures, it would be very difficult for hunters to even get to Lana‘i. Additional information on available hunting opportunities: http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/recreation/
Department of Defense:
More Information on Major Disaster Declaration
The Hawai'i Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA) is already moving to support an expedited process for Personal Assistance through an online application process with our State Partners, which will help with the volume of applicants from this unprecedented incident and its consequent reimbursements. Staff will be allotted for these and we are working on a request for these resources. Yesterday President Trump declared a major disaster for the State of Hawai'i as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. This declaration, makes the State of Hawai'i eligible for reimbursement through the Public Assistance Program at a 75% Federal Cost Share. The Individual Assistance (IA) Program for disaster-related emergency facilities and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMPG) for mitigation measures to reduce the risk of life are currently under review.
Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism:
Take Time to Reply to 2020 Census
Your ʻohana counts. In this time of crisis, we need to count everyone living in Hawai‘i for the 2020 Census. Funding for our state government and local communities depends on the Census count. It supports public schools, student loans for college, special education, Medicaid and Medicare, roads, public housing, food assistance programs, social services, and much more.
Hawai‘i’s response rate has been lower than the national average: 33.9% vs. 41.3% as of April 1. Shape Hawai‘i’s future and respond to the 2020 Census online at my2020census.gov, call 1-844-330-2020, or return your census forms by mail.
Hawai‘i State Senate:
Hana Highway restrooms remain closed
Senate Majority Leader J. Kalani English (Hāna, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka‘i, Lana‘i and Kaho‘olawe) announced today that public restrooms along the Hana Highway will remain closed until further notice while the highway is restricted to local traffic only.
“The Hana Highway is closed to slow the spread of COVID-19 into the remote East Maui community, where supplies are limited and emergency medical help is very far away,” said Senator English. “No one should be using the highway except for East Maui residents needing emergency assistance and life-saving necessities not available in Hana.” The DLNR Division of State Parks maintains two restrooms along the Hana Highway at Kaumahina and Pua‘aka‘a Wayside parks that are now closed until further notice. In addition, Waiʻānapanapa State Park and its restrooms are also closed due to COVID-19. “I know there are kupuna who want to use these restrooms when they must make the long trip into town, but they are the very people who should be avoiding contact with these public toilets,” said Senator English.
Media Contacts:
Hawai‘i COVID-19 Joint Information Center
Phone: 808.354-4263
Email: hawaiicovid19@gmail.com
COVID-19 Daily Update: 4/1/2020
HAWAI‘I COVID-19 JOINT INFORMATION CENTER DAILY NEWS DIGEST
April 1, 2020
Office of the Governor:
President Signs Disaster Declaration for Hawai‘i
Today, President Trump granted a Major Disaster Declaration for the State of Hawai‘i triggering the release of Federal funds to help communities recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. The declaration is in effect from Jan. 20, 2020 and is continuing. The disaster declaration provides assistance to individuals and households and for emergency work and repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities. The measure provides direct federal assistance of 75% of the total cost.
https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-policy-and-guidance
Small Business Administration Details Paycheck Protection Program
Jane Sawyer, the District Director of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), joined Gov. Ige today during his daily media teleconference to provide more details on the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program. It’s part of the “The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act” (also known as CARES Act). This program gives small businesses access to short-term cash flow assistance aimed at helping businesses deal with the immediate global impact caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. These loans are made by approved lenders, certified by the SBA and are guaranteed by the federal government.
https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/paycheck-protection-program-ppp
Department of Health:
First COVID-19 Death Possibly Travel-Related
The first death from COVID-19 has been confirmed as an older adult O‘ahu resident who had recently traveled from Las Vegas. DOH reports 34 new COVID-19 cases today -- one is a minor and 33 are adults. The majority of cases are residents (26), one (1) is a visitor and seven (7) are unknown and pending investigation. There are now a total of 258 presumptive or confirmed cases in the state.
Community Surveillance testing has conducted roughly 380 tests to date on representative samples from every island with one (1) positive result on O‘ahu, reinforcing there is limited and localized community spread on O‘ahu.
Department of Transportation:
First Day of Interisland Travel Quarantine Order Described as Orderly
Few passengers and compliance led to smooth implementation of the self-quarantine rules for all interisland travelers. Arrival numbers are now down more than 98.5% from last March. It is anticipated to drop even more with fewer interisland passengers. All interisland travelers are required to fill-out out a declaration form, which will be collected at a TSA checkpoint prior to their departure. This is different from domestic and international travelers who submit the form upon arrival in Hawai‘i. The form can also be filled out in advance and is available at https://hidot.hawaii.gov/coronavirus/
Passengers who are traveling for medical reasons for treatment or to see a specialist should also wear a mask and practice social distancing. If a patient does not have a mask, they can use a homemade mask, but even if they do not have one, they will not be denied on the flight. They can still travel and go to their appointment.
Essential workers while traveling through the airport and on the flight should wear a mask and social distance themselves. Essential workers while on another island for work need to quarantine themselves when not working. When they get home, they don’t need to quarantine themselves. Exemption inquiries and requests should be emailed to:
Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs:
Consumer Protection Office Provides Resources for Landlords and Tenants
Governor Ige’s recent emergency proclamations concerning the coronavirus, have invoked special legal requirements applicable to Landlords and Tenants in Hawai‘i. The Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) is providing answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS) to assist homeowners and renters with inquiries regarding the Landlord-Tenant code. The guidance provided is current as of March 31, 2020 and may be subject to change per actions taken at the state and/or federal level. The FAQS along with more information regarding the Hawai‘i Landlord-Tenant code:
https://cca.hawaii.gov/ocp/landlordtenant/
https://cca.hawaii.gov/blog/release-state-provides-guidance-for-homeowners-and-renters/
Dept. of the Attorney General:
Scam Alert from the AG and Consumer Protection Office
Hawaiʻi Attorney General Clare E. Connors and Hawaiʻi Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) Executive Director Stephen Levins are alerting Hawaiʻi residents about a wave of COVID-19 scams occurring as a result of the global Coronavirus pandemic. These scams focus on all areas of consumer vulnerability in an attempt to capitalize on fear and rapidly changing developments.
It’s important that during this trying time, residents remain vigilant when online shopping, as well as in communications with those offering what seem to be too-good-to-be-true opportunities. For information regarding SCAM prevention, assistance, and up-to-date tips, please visit:
· https://www.consumerresources.org/
· https://ag.hawaii.gov/tax/files/2013/01/540427_11.pdf
· https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0074-giving-charity
Department of Defense:
Hawai‘i National Guardsmen Ready for COVID-19 Response
The Hawai‘i National Guard has been partially activated and is standing ready to provide community support during the COVID-19 crisis. Airmen from the Air National Guard’s, Medical Detachment 1 are carrying out daily temperature screenings and health surveys for guardsmen on active duty. Their job is to make sure that guardsmen remain healthy for the duration of their deployments. Currently the guard is doing planning and logistics in support of the state and is prepared to take on any tasks as assigned by the governor.
https://www.dvidshub.net/image/6157625/activated-hawaii-national-guardsmen-ready-covid-19-response
State Foundation on Arts and Culture
Stress Relief!
When times are difficult, we often turn to music, read a book or engage in the arts. Participating in creative activities is a way to find meaning in difficult times. The Arts affirm life. The State Foundation on Arts and Culture has compiled a curated list of various arts experiences, available online for all ages and abilities. The list includes links to online performances by Hawai‘i arts and culture organizations, lesson plans and activity guides for educators, and coloring pages. This list will be updated as more resources become available.
https://sfca.hawaii.gov/artsed-resources/
Media Contacts:
Hawai‘i COVID-19 Joint Information Center
Phone: 808.354-4263
Email: hawaiicovid19@gmail.com
State of Hawaii 4th Emergency Proclamation: FAQ's
COVID-19 Daily Update: 3/31/2020
HAWAI‘I COVID-19 JOINT INFORMATION CENTER DAILY NEWS DIGEST
March 31, 2020
Office of the Governor:
Governor Ige Extends Condolences to Family of First COVID-19 Patient
An older adult O‘ahu resident, who was hospitalized with multiple medical issues, is the first person in Hawai‘i diagnosed with COVID-19 to die. Gov. Ige, Lt. Gov. Josh Green, State Health Director Dr. Bruce Anderson, and Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency Director Kenneth Hara all expressed sorrow for the loss of one of Hawai‘i’s kupuna and offered their condolences to the family. The exact cause of death has not been determined.
Additional Details on Interisland Travel Restrictions
Gov. David Ige today signed a fourth supplementary proclamation that requires all residents and visitors traveling between any of the islands in the State of Hawai‘i to self-quarantine for 14 days. Those who must travel to perform an essential function, including those providing and seeking medical care, will have to fill out and sign an Interisland Declaration Form, wear appropriate protective gear – primarily masks, and follow all social distancing requirements. The quarantine mandate takes effect at 12:01 a.m. on Wed., Apr. 1. Violations of this order could result in a misdemeanor with fines of up to $5,000 and/or up to one year in prison, or both. If you have questions about whether your travel is essential, please e-mail CovidExemption@hawaii.gov
Craft Rum Distillery Producing FDA-Approved Hand Sanitizer During Pandemic
Last Saturday, a 55-gallon barrel of hand sanitizer rolled from the vat room of a distillery in Kunia, to staff and volunteers waiting next door in the tasting room. This is the result of Gov. David Ige and the co-founders of KoHana Hawaiian Agricole Rum organizing a local business hui to manufacture hundreds of gallons of U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved hand sanitizer for use during the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Video: https://vimeo.com/402014890
Department of Health:
First Death from COVID-19 Reported
The department is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of an elderly O‘ahu man, who tested positive for COVID-19. DOH reports 20 additional COVID-19 cases today and all are adults. All but one of the cases are residents of Hawai‘i. DOH is also reporting the first positive case from sentinel surveillance. There are now 224 presumptive or positive cases of the coronavirus in the state.
Please visit the DOH website visit for more detailed diagnosis and testing information:
New case maps and epidemic curve graph posted online
DOH has posted new case maps and an epidemic curve of all Confirmed COVID-19 Cases by Residence and Exposure in Hawai‘i. The epidemic curve shows the number of confirmed cases by date of symptom onset indicating cases that are travel associated (residents and visitors), community, or unknown. The maps will be updated weekly and epidemic curve will be updated daily. The island maps show cases by residence zip codes and do not show where exposure or disease transmission is occurring. The maps provide information that could be used for planning county resources and where those resources may be needed. There are no cases on Molokai and Lanai at this time.
https://health.hawaii.gov/coronavirusdisease2019/what-you-should-know/current-situation-in-hawaii/
COVID-19 Awareness Campaign Featuring Frank De Lima Begins
“Stay Healthy, Stay at Home” is the title of a new campaign on TV, radio, newspaper and digital, encouraging adults, especially seniors, to practice social distancing and good hygiene to prevent further spread of COVID-19. DOH has teamed with local funny man Frank De Lima to use humor to empower people to take simple actions to protect themselves and their loved ones during this worldwide health crisis. De Lima—a senior himself—was a natural fit for the campaign, having released his “Corona, Corona” song about the virus woes earlier this month
View the public service announcements and get the latest info about coronavirus at HawaiiCOVID19.com/resources
Interim Guidance for Dental Service Providers During COVID-19 Response
To conserve personal protective equipment (PPE) and limit the exposure of patients and staff to COVID-19, the CDC recommends that dental service providers postpone elective procedures, surgeries, and non-urgent dental visits. Patients should be contacted prior to urgent or emergency procedures to be screened for symptoms of respiratory illness.
For further guidelines:
cdc/gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/dental-settings.html.
Hawai‘i Tourism Authority:
Passenger Numbers Continue Dropping
Yesterday, 681 passengers arrived in Hawai‘i on the fifth day of the state’s 14-day mandatory self-quarantine for all incoming passengers. Of that number, 121 people were visitors, who must self-quarantine in their hotels or lodging.
Department of the Attorney General:
AG Joins Coalition Asking FDA to Increase Access to Reproductive Tele-Health Care
Hawai‘i Attorney General Clare E. Connors has joined a multistate coalition of 21 attorneys general, led by California, in sending a letter to the Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requesting that they increase access to reproductive healthcare, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The coalition urges the Administration to waive or utilize its discretion on enforcement of its Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) designation, which impedes women’s access to the medication abortion prescription drug known as Mifepristone. “During this COVID crisis, the federal government should remove barriers to critical healthcare,” said Attorney General Connors.
Read the letter here:
https://ag.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/FINAL-AG-Letter-HHS-Medication-Abortion-2020-9.pdf
Green Infrastructure Authority Board:
GEMS Loan Deferrals Approved
The Board of Directors of the Hawaii Green Infrastructure Authority (HGIA) has approved an emergency postponement of loan payments for GEMS Program direct loans and on-bill loans in an effort to lessen the financial impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on residents and businesses in Hawaii. The approval allows interested borrowers of loans under the GEMS Program to opt-in to defer payments for up to six months. For more information visit www.gems.hawaii.gov.
Media Contacts:
Hawai‘i COVID-19 Joint Information Center
Phone: (808) 354-4263
Email: hawaiicovid19@gmail.com
