The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) is urging everyone to exercise caution during the holiday season as statewide COVID-19 cases are surging again.

797 new COVID-19 cases were reported today, this is the highest case count in more than three months.  The 7-day new case average increased from 101 ten days ago to 297 today. The positivity rate jumped from 1.4% ten days ago to 4.2% today.

“These numbers reflect a disturbing trend. The Delta variant, the Omicron variant, large gatherings, increased travel and holiday get-togethers appear to be fueling the surge,” said Health Director Dr. Elizabeth Char, FACEP in a statement.

To date, 31 confirmed cases involving the Omicron variant have been identified in Hawai‘i. While all 31 cases of Omicron detected thus far are on O‘ahu, it is reasonable to believe Omicron has also reached the neighbor islands.

In a statement Governor David Ige said, “We are continuing the research to understand what we’re dealing with, and our best researchers and medical experts are working on this. The mayors and I are discussing what type of protocols might be required going forward. The bottom line is this: Your life matters. Our mission is to stop the spread. It will take all of us to do that.”

People at least 18 years old who completed their initial series of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine at least six months ago should now get a booster dose.  Individuals ages 16 and 17 who completed their initial series of Pfizer vaccine at least six months ago can also receive a booster shot. Those who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least two months ago should get a booster now.

Information on where vaccines are available can be found at https://hawaiicovid19.com/vaccine.