It’s something many of us had hoped we’d left behind. But COVID-19 is making a quiet comeback across the islands. The state is reporting a noticeable increase in new cases this week, along with the flu. But as health officials tells us, this isn’t cause for panic, but it is reason to stay informed.
It may not be making the headlines like it used to but COVID-19 is still with us – and this week, it’s making a bit more noise.
According to the State Department of Health, 210 new COVID-19 cases have been reported in Hawaii this week.
“I would say compared to past years, it’s still a very modest increase that we’re seeing this time of year, but we have seen summer surges in Hawaii. So I think it’s something to pay attention to,” said Dr. Sarah Kemble, State Epidemiologist.
Our senior population is seeing the greatest increase in COVID cases – an average of 23 new cases reported this week. The variant circulating is the LP variant.
“It’s something that’s been seeing emerging globally. It does seem to have an advantage over other variants, but it’s not associated with more severe disease or greater resistance to vaccine,” said Dr. Kemble.
Other respiratory illnesses. like the flu, are also seeing a slight rise, accounting for 11% of positive tests and 2% of emergency room visits. Not as high as the peak of flu season when it’s closer to a 305 positive rate, but there has been increased activity, particularly in children.
“Technically we’re out of the flu season, but we’re still seeing cases every day. I’m still seeing a fairly good number of COVID cases as well. I would say the RSV cases are probably the least of those three, but I’m seeing a case here and there,” said Dr. Paul Eakin, JABSOM Pediatric Emergency Medicine Division Chief.
The health department’s overall disease activity indicator is currently at a medium level. Dr. Eakin says the latest wave isn’t unexpected considering that respiratory illnesses occur year round in Hawaii.
“Because we get tourists from the mainland. We also get tourists from the southern hemisphere. So I don’t know if flu ever truly goes away. And then I think COVID is also kind of here to stay,” said Dr. Eakin.
So what should you do if you’re feeling sick right now? The advice is simple – but important.
“I think the biggest take home point is if you’re feeling sick, if you’re having sore throat, runny nose, cough, and especially if you’re having fever, safest thing is to stay home and not spread your germs until you’re feeling better,” said Dr. Kemble.
Doctors also recommend staying up to date on vaccines.
A link to the State Health Department’s Respiratory Disease Dashboard is here: