The Hawai‘i Department of Health’s State Laboratories Division (SLD) has detected 24 additional cases of the SARS-CoV-2 variant B.1.1.529, also known as the Omicron variant. This brings the total number of confirmed Omicron cases in Hawai‘i to 74.

While all Omicron cases detected thus far are on O‘ahu, four specimens from Hawaiʻi Island and two specimens from Maui contain a molecular clue indicating they are likely Omicron. Whole genome sequencing will be performed to determine if they are Omicron.

The latest 24 Omicron cases come from specimens collected from December 7 through December 13. Omicron is circulating widely in all our communities. DOH expects Omicron cases to increase rapidly statewide.