This is a COVID-19 informational update for Saturday, July 17th.
For the County of Hawaii, the Department of Health reports 20 new cases with 164 active cases, and 9 persons hospitalized.
In the past weeks, Hawaii Island has seen an increase of positive cases. Many of which are associated with travel and not following preventive measures. This increase in the virus demonstrates the importance of following the preventive policies of face coverings, physical distancing, and limiting gatherings. Know that these preventive policies are mandated. Please remember to wash hands frequently and cover your mouth when coughing and sneezing.
As you continue to enjoy the summer, within the policies of face coverings, distancing, and gathering, stay healthy by exercise, fresh air and sunlight.
To help stem the increase in cases, community testing is scheduled starting Tuesday at Kona Aquatics in Kailua-Kona from 3 PM to 6 PM and Wednesday at Afook Chinen Civic Auditorium in Hilo from 3 to 6 p.m. The purpose of testing is to identify positive cases as early as possible, and in this way, help prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
For those who have not been vaccinated, know that by getting vaccinated, you are helping to prevent the spread of this virus.
For more information on clinics and pharmacies offering vaccination, please visit the County of Hawaii website. Civil Defense: www.hawaiicounty.gov