Hana, Maui – Senator J. Kalani English (D-Hana, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka‘i, Lana‘i and Kaho‘olawe) today thanked Governor David Ige for implementing his recommendation to close the Hana Highway to non-residents to reduce the spread of COVID-19, and Mayor Mike Victorino for closing the back side county road through Kaupō to non-residents. “On a typical day, thousands of rental cars drive the narrow Hana Highway and congregate at lookouts and parks,” said Senator English. “During this emergency we need to keep the highway open for residents of East Maui, delivery trucks, and first responders. We cannot have thousands of tourists from around the world causing traffic and entering closed parks, coming into contact with one another and our residents. As a resident of Hana, I know that the majority of our economy in East Maui depends on tourism and that this pandemic is causing a major hardship, but when we’re choosing between saving lives and the economy, health must come first.” Governor Ige instructed the Hawai‘i Department of Transportation to place signs along the Hana Highway notifying drivers that the highway is restricted to residents only. He also instructed the Maui Visitors Bureau to inform all industry partners and ask rental car companies to advise all customers of the restriction. Mayor Victorino instructed Maui County departments to close the back-side road through Kaupo to Hana to non-residents. #COVID19 #Coronavirus #DavidIge #MikeVictorino #HawaiiSenate #KalaniEnglish

DOH Launches New, Dedicated COVID-19 Website Today Today, the Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) unveiled a new website for the public to access the latest information on COVID-19 in Hawai‘i. The State of Hawai‘i has mobilized an inter-agency collaborative effort to keep the community safe and healthy. The website, hawaiicovid19.com will go live at 3pm. The website provides timely information and resources on the coronavirus, including guidance on how to prevent and mitigate community spread, common symptoms of COVID-19, and frequently asked questions. Please read and share the information. By providing our family and friends, our neighbors and our visitors with accurate information, we keep our community healthy and we keep Hawaiʻi a welcoming place to live and visit. Don’t spread the virus. Don’t spread misinformation. And let’s prepare together. Always share aloha. Sign up to receive updates at [health.hawaii.gov/updates]health.hawaii.gov/updates. Social Distancing: A New Way of Expressing Aloha In Hawai‘i’s close-knit communities, federal, state and county mandates for social distancing can be a difficult message to accept. Island residents are accustomed to gathering together for social and public events and expressing their support and aloha for each other with hugs and other signs of affection. COVID-19 recommendations are changing the rules on how much physical distance individuals should keep from each other, but the aloha spirit prevails in the islands. Social distancing is a new way of expressing aloha. Cancelling events that do not allow attendees to be at least six feet apart—the equivalent of two arms length—and avoiding unnecessary physical meeting with others are proven strategies to mitigate the spread of the virus. However, the effectiveness of these initiatives largely depends on the cooperation and compliance from the public. “It may feel counterintuitive, but one of the best ways to show aloha for each other at this critical time is to refrain from being in large gatherings and to keep a safe, healthy distance from each other,” said Bruce Anderson, director of the Hawai‘i Department of Health. “These unprecedented times require a new way of thinking. You may be healthy, but others around you may not be as fortunate. By practicing social distancing, you’re limiting the potential for exposure to any illness in your household and protecting everyone in our community. We all need to consider the health and wellbeing of others, especially seniors, those with preexisting health conditions and others whose health may be compromised. Anderson noted that technology enables us to have social distance without sacrificing emotional connection. “When feasible, we should use tools available for virtual meetings by phone, tablet or computer as a way to maintain contact with loved ones, especially kupuna in care homes given Gov. Ige’s directive to refrain from visiting nursing homes, retirement or long-term care facilities at this time.” Compliance with Governor’s Directives The Hawai‘i Department of Health is fully endorsing Gov. David Ige’s directives to close establishments that typically attract large numbers of people, and to limit employees in the workplace to minimize exposure. While these are not mandates with consequences for non-compliance, these directives require the cooperation of businesses, organizations and individuals to be effective from a public health perspective. “We can be more effective in mitigating the spread of COVID-19 if everyone takes these aggressive actions seriously,” Anderson said. “The response to the Governor’s directives has been positive so far and there are many, such as food establishments, which have identified alternative ways to serve the public with drive-through and take-out service to maintain their operations.” Criteria for Screening Sites There are limited supplies of COVID-19 testing in Hawai‘i, and this makes prudent use of these resources a priority. Many who are well or experiencing only mild flu-like symptoms may want a COVID-19 test for peace of mind, but this is not a good use of the testing resources. The DOH wants to underscore the criteria for testing and how to properly use the screening sites so that only those who critically need the tests, including older adults and those with existing health conditions, can have access when they need them. The public should heed the following steps: First, contact your healthcare provider in advance to determine if you need to have an in-person visit with your provider. If you do not have a healthcare provider, call the nearest healthcare provider to see if you should come in or remain at home. Your provider will determine over the phone whether you meet the criteria for COVID-19 testing. If your provider directs you to come in for a screening, bring a photo ID and your provider’s order. Your provider will take a swab for testing. The specimen will be sent to a private or state lab for the results. During this time, you are expected to self-quarantine at home until the test results are available, which could be up to 3 to 4 days. If you are healthy or experiencing mild to moderate flu-like symptoms, DOH urges you to stay at home and avoid an unnecessary visit to a screening site. The screening sites are only for those who are severely ill with COVID-19 symptoms. Two New Positive Cases on Oahu As of March 18, 2020, noon, there is a total of 16 confirmed or presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 in Hawai‘i. New positive results were announced today for two O‘ahu residents who traveled outside Hawai‘i. The Department of Health (DOH) is monitoring these individuals and supervising their isolation as well as the self-quarantine of their family members.  One of the O‘ahu cases announced this past Monday, March 16, was a Kualoa tour operator who had not traveled, but was exposed to travelers daily. Three family members from the individual’s household were tested with negative results. All cases who tested positive in Hawaiʻi are travel related. There is no evidence of community spread in Hawai‘i at this time. COVID-19 Summary of Numbers as of March 18, 2020 at noon (updated as new information becomes available) Number of Confirmed or Presumptive Positive Case(s)* 16 Number of Persons Under Investigation (current, testing pending) 9 Confirmed: Meets CDC criteria and positive test result received from a certified laboratory such as the DOH State Laboratories Division. *The CDC has advised states that respiratory samples positive for SARS-CoV2 in a state and public-health laboratory will be considered “positive” with no need for further testing. Presumptive Positive: Positive test results from a private laboratory requiring confirmation by a state public health laboratory. Persons Under Investigation (PUI): Meets CDC criteria for investigation and testing pending . 2-1-1 Call Center for Information on COVID-19 The Aloha United Way call center is open daily between 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. For information or questions about COVID-19: Call 2-1-1 from any location in the state Text 877-275-6569 Email info211@auw.org Visit health.hawaii.gov/covid19 or coronavirus.gov #COVID19 #Coronavirus #DOH #Health #DavidIge

Senate President Ron Kouchi announced today that he has appointed a special committee to advise the Senate on the State of Hawai‘i’s COVID-19 plans and procedures. The Committee members are: Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz, Senator Jarrett Keohokalole, Senator Michelle N. Kidani, Senator Donna Mercado Kim, Senator Sharon Y. Moriwaki, and Senator Kurt Fevella. Due to social distancing measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the meetings will not be open to the public to attend in person. The initial meetings are scheduled for tomorrow, March 19, 2020,  and on Friday, March 20. Additional meetings will be announced. #COVID19 #Coronavirus #HawaiiSenate

“The actions I’m announcing today may seem extreme to some of you, and we know that it will have negative effects to our economy. But we are confident that taking aggressive actions now will allow us to have a quicker recovery when this crisis is over,” said Gov. Ige. Gov. Ige strongly encouraged our visitors to postpone their vacations for at least the next 30-days and reschedule for a later date. Effective this Friday (March 20), screening of all passengers disembarking cruise ships will be screened. Our airports are working on implementation plans for screening arriving visitors Gov. Ige is directing the following: Limit social gatherings to groups of 10 people or less to follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines. Close bars and clubs. Close restaurants or provide drive-thru, take out, pick-up, or delivery. Close theatres, entertainment centers and visitor attractions. Avoid any discretionary travel. Suspend services and activities in places of worship. Stay home if you are a high-risk individual and take additional precautionary measures. Do not visit nursing homes or retirement or long-term care facilities. If someone in your household has tested positive for COVID-19, keep the entire household at home. Stability is also critical in this unprecedented situation.  Accordingly, the following steps have been taken: All utilities have been directed to take necessary measures to ensure that they can continue to operate in the normal course. Director Kenneth S. Hara, Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency, has the full authority to determine what constitutes critical infrastructure or essential services that will continue operations. This includes utilities, fuel producers, shipping facilities and industry, financial institutions, financial services, telecommunications companies, wholesaler or distributors, grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations and other industry vital to our community. For both the utilities and essential services, government resources and support can be deployed as necessary. The one-week waiting period for unemployment insurance benefits is waived for those unemployed because of COVID-19. The Office of Consumer Protection is working with its Landlord Tenant Center, and effective already are emergency provisions applicable to tenants. During the emergency, the following additional steps are being discussed with our community’s business partners and non-profit organizations to maintain stability for our families by: Ensuring employees have benefits, even if employees are not at work. Halting eviction for non-payment of rent. Halting foreclosures. Working with public and private utility providers to avoid shut-off of service to critical utilities such as electric, gas, water, internet, landline telephone and cell phone. Gov. Ige has also directed all department and agency heads to review their employees and identify the following: Essential-functions (will be required to report to work) Non-essential – able to work remotely via telework (work from home) Non-essential – unable to work remotely via telework or otherwise These employees could be re-assigned to work that could be done remotely, as long as it’s in the employee’s job description and classification For the next 15 calendar days, Gov. Ige is directing the departments to have all non-essential staff stay home. Essential workers will continue to report to work. All employees will continue to be paid and will still be eligible for sick leave, vacation and other benefits. Every employee should look to their respective department for detailed instructions. Gov. Ige has also banned all non-essential travel for state workers, including to the Neighbor Islands. In addition, the state is taking the following actions: Temporarily closing State Libraries to public access to evaluate and adjust operations to maintain social distancing. There will be no fees for late returns and the Library online resources will still be available. The Dept. of Land and Natural Resources is closing parks, offices with in-person access and large. All events at the State Capitol, State Art Museum, and tours at Washington Place are suspended. The Dept. of Commerce and Consumer Affairs has suspended all combat sports in Hawaii. Cancelled events at Aloha Stadium and Hawaiʻi Convention Center for the next 30 days. “It is essential that our government operations and services continue during this time, but we must keep all of our employees and community safe and healthy.  We expect more stringent actions in the days to come. These are difficult times, but Hawaiʻi has a history of coming together when faced with challenges. I’m confident that together we will rise to the task,” said Gov. Ige. #COVID19 #Coronavirus #DOH #Health #DavidIge

Diamond Head State Monument Among Closed Parks (Honolulu) – Out of an abundance of caution and to facilitate social distancing recommendations, DLNR and its divisions are announcing the following closures to help reduce the potential spread of COVID-19. DLNR Chair Suzanne Case said, “We appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding during this time of major inconvenience. We intend to reopen parks and facilities as soon as the novel coronavirus is no longer a threat. These steps are being taken to protect all visitors and constituents, as well as our staff, while maintaining a high level of service.” Closures are listed alphabetically by division or office and will be updated as necessary: Bureau of Conveyances (BOC) – (808) 587-0147 https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/boc/ The public reference room #123 in the Kalanimoku State Office Building will be closed starting Wed, 3/18/20 until further notice.  Most, but not all, research normally done in this facility can be accomplished online: https://boc.ehawaii.gov/docsearch/search.html The BOC recording office room #120 in the Kalanimoku State Office Building is continuing to conduct document recording.  Electronic or mail-in recordings are strongly recommended: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/boc/e-recording/ or Bureau of Conveyances, P.O. Box 2867, Honolulu, HI  96803. Commission on Water Resource Management (CWRM) – (808) 587-0214 https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/cwrm/ The CWRM office, room 227, in the Kalanimoku State Office Building is closed to in-person access. All permit applications accepted by mail or electronic transmission: dlnr.cwrm@hawaii.gov CWRM is not currently accepting hand-delivered applications. Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR) – (808) 587-0100 https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dar/ All DAR offices across the state are closed to in-person access. People can apply for licenses, permits and registrations on the DAR website or by calling (808) 587-0100. Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DOBOR) – (808) 587-1966 https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dobor/ All DOBOR District and Harbor offices are closed to in-person access.All public restrooms facilities within harbors are closed.All existing and new Marine Event Permits involving more than 50 people are being cancelled.Payments for slips, revocable permits & leases, vessel registrations & transfers should be submitted online or via mail: vessel.ehawaii.gov or DOBOR, 4 Sand Island Access Road, Honolulu, HI  96819 Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) – (808) 587-0066 https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/docare/ All DOCARE offices statewide closed to in-person access. Anyone needing in-person services such as evidence releases or report copies should call DOCARE to make arrangements. All in-person State Hunter Education classes are suspended. On-line courses continue, but in-person testing requirements are suspended. Replacement hunter education cards can be processed online. Hunter Education offices in Honolulu and Waimea are closed to in-person access. DOCARE officers will be patrolling all closed facilities and enforcing these closures.  Anyone caught in a closed area is subject to law enforcement actions including the possibility of citations and/or arrest. Please report suspected resource violations to 643-DLNR (3567) or via the free DLNRTip app. Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) – (808) 587-0166 https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dofaw/ DOFAW announces a 30-day pause for deer hunting season in the Lānaʻi Game Management Area. Permits and reservations for deer hunts for March 21st, 22nd,28th, 29th and April 4th, 5th, 11th & 12th have been cancelled.  Efforts are underway to notify hunters impacted by this cancellation. Hawai ‘i island’s hunting tag requirements will be waived for the Spring Turkey and the Puuanhulu Archery season. At this time, there are no additional closures of State Forest Reserves, Wildlife Sanctuaries, other Game Management Areas, Natural Area Reserves, or trails in the Nā Ala Hele Trails & Access Program. (Please note: Mānoa Falls and ‘Aihualama trails are currently closed due to unsafe and slippery conditions). No new permits for Hawai‘i Island’s Waimanu campsites, Keanakolu cabins and Ainapo cabin will be issued. All existing permits are suspended and full refunds will be issued. There are no restrictions on otherwise permitted activities, including public access, hunting and recreation. All DOFAW offices statewide are closed to in-person access. Hunting licenses are available at: https://hunting.ehawaii.gov Camping permits are available at: https://camping.ehawaii.gov Collection permits are available upon request at: dlnr.fw.oahubranch@hawaii.gov Hiking permits for Lulumahu and Kuaokala trails are available at: https://trails.ehawaii.gov/camping/all,e-search.html#. Poamoho hiking permits are available at: https://hawaiitrails.hawaii.gov/trails/#/trail/poamoho-trail–poamoho-hele-loa-access-on-line-permit/175 DLNR Main Office (Chair’s Office) – (808) 587-0400 https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/ Offices at 1151 Punchbowl Street, in the Kalanimoku State Office Building have limited in-person access.Please call the number above or contact DLNR at dlnr@hawaii.gov Engineering Division – (808) 587-0230 http://dlnreng.hawaii.gov/ Engineering Division Office, Room 221, in the Kalanimoku State Office Building are closed to in-person access, except for deliveries and mail drop off/pick-up.E-mail inquiries to dlnr.engr@hawaii.gov Administrative Services Office (Fiscal Office) – (808) 587-0344 The office at 1151 Punchbowl Street, in the Kalanimoku State Office Building, is not accepting walk-in payments. Payments can be mailed to P.O. Box 621, Honolulu, HI 96809-0621. State Historic Preservation Office (SHPD) – (808) 692-8015 https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/shpd/ SHPD Offices are closed to in-person access.Communications, including formal project submittals must be sent electronically.The SHPD Librarian and GIS Specialist will respond to requests for digital library and archival materials, and GIS data on a first-come, first-served basis.To report the inadvertent discovery of a burial site, please call the number above. Kaho‘olawe Island Reserve Commission (KIRC) – (808) 243-5020 http://www.kahoolawe.hawaii.gov/home.php KIRC’s Wailuku Office is closed to in-person access.All Kaho‘olawe trolling permits will only be accepted by mail. Boat stickers and permits will be mailed to applicants.Mail permit applications to: 811 Kolu St., Suite 201, Wailuku, HI 96793The KIRC will be continuing recovery and restoration activities due to a recent wildfire on Kaho‘olawe, but work groups are being reduced in size. Land Division – (808) 587-0419 https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/ld/ All Land Division Offices statewide are closed to in-person access. Office of Conservation and Coastal Lands (OCCL) – (808) 587-0377 https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/occl/ OCCL Offices are closed to in-person access.For information about Conservation District regulations and policies visit the OCCL webpage.Applications and inquiries can be mailed to Office of Conservation & Coastal Lands, P.O. 621, Honolulu, HI 96809-0621. Division of State Parks – (808) 587-0300 https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/ State Parks Offices statewide are closed to in-person accessCaretakers will continue to maintain, monitor and service parks during these closures.Camping and pavilion use permits are suspended.Vendors and concessions are being contacted with cease-of-operations instructions.The following parks will be closed effective, March 18, 2020 Hawai‘i Island: ‘Akaka Falls State Park Kekaha Kai State Park Wailoa River State Recreation Area Wailuku River State Park Hāpuna Beach SRA Kīholo State Park Reserve Kaua‘i: All State Parks, Recreational Piers, Wilderness Parks and Historic Parks Maui: Iao Valley State Monument Wai’anapanapa State Park Kaumahina State Wayside Pua’a Ka’a State Wayside Makena State Park Polipoli State Recreational Area-cabin and tent camping Molokai: Pala’au State Park Oahu: All State Parks, Monuments, Waysides, Lookouts, Historical Sites and Recreation Areas Chair Case commented, “While we are disappointed to have to close parks and facilities and to cancel hunts, camping, special use permits and events, due to the necessity of social distancing, the health and safety of our staff serving the public and the safety of the community is our highest priority. We continue working very closely with other state agencies and will provide updates about any additional closures or restrictions that might be necessary to keep everyone safe.” Source: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/blog/2020/03/17/nr20-035/ #COVID19 #Coronavirus #Hawaii #DLNR #ParkClosures

Proper Use of COVID-19 Tests Imperative There is a current shortage of hand sanitizers and toilet paper in Hawai‘i in part because of the public’s over-reaction to COVID-19. The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) wants to avoid having the same shortage of COVID-19 test resources by making sure the public understands how to properly utilize the newly established screening sites. If people who are well or experiencing mild flu-like symptoms go to the screening sites, there potentially may be insufficient testing supplies for those who critically need the tests, including older adults and those with existing health conditions. The public should heed the following steps: First, contact your healthcare provider in advance to determine if you need to have an in-person visit with your provider. Your provider will determine over the phone whether you meet the criteria for COVID-19 testing. If your provider directs you to come in for a screening, bring a photo ID and insurance card. Your provider will take a swab for testing. The specimen will be sent to a private or state lab for the results. During this time, you are expected to self-quarantine at home until the test results are available, which could be up to 3 to 4 days. If you are healthy or experiencing mild to moderate flu-like symptoms, DOH urges you to stay at home and avoid an unnecessary visit to a screening site. The screening sites are only for those who are severely ill with COVID-19 symptoms. Postpone or Cancel In-Person Events The Hawai‘i Department of Health recommends postponing or canceling in-person events involving 50 or more people for the next eight weeks. Consider using technology to hold virtual meetings or other means when feasible. It is important to note these are recommendations to encourage best practices for social distancing; not mandates. Businesses and organizations have the option to hold group events and meetings at their own discretion, keeping in mind that attendees should be two-arms-length or six feet apart when possible. Seniors and those with underlying health conditions who are at a greater risk for COVID-19 or respiratory illnesses should avoid attending public gatherings altogether. Cruise Ship Being Rerouted The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) Harbors Division and the U.S. Coast Guard are continuing coordination with Holland America Line’s Maasdam cruise ship, which is on its way to Hawai‘i. Initially, the Maasdam had a port call for Hilo, however that reservation has been canceled. HDOT is currently working to direct the ship to Honolulu Harbor so that disembarking passengers will have various flight options for departure out of Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). To date, there have been no positive cases of COVID-19 associated with the ship. It is important to note that the Maasdam will have been at sea longer than the 14-day incubation period prior to arriving in the Hawaiian Islands. Prior to port, all ships are required to call in advance with information on any symptomatic passengers. If there are concerns about passengers who are ill, the ship will be held out of port. 2-1-1 Call Center for Information on COVID-19 The Aloha United Way call center is open daily between 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. For information or questions about COVID-19: Call 2-1-1 from any location in the state Text 877-275-6569 Email info211@auw.org Visit health.hawaii.gov/covid19 or coronavirus.gov Four New Cases of COVID-19 Identified on O‘ahu and Hawai‘i Island As of 2:00 p.m. on March 17, 2020 there is a total of 14 confirmed or presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 in Hawai‘i. Four new confirmed cases of COVID-19 were identified: Two on O‘ahu, one on Hawai‘i Island and one on Maui. DOH is gathering more information on these cases. COVID-19 Summary of Numbers as of March 17, 2020 at 2:00 pm (updated as new information becomes available) Number of Confirmed or Presumptive Positive Case(s)* 14 Number of Persons Under Investigation (current, testing pending) 12 Number of Negative Test Results 93 Number of Person Self-Monitoring with DOH supervision 9 The 9 individuals who are self-monitoring with public health supervision are all on O‘ahu. These numbers fluctuate often as travelers arrive, depart, or begin and end their self-monitoring with supervision by DOH. Confirmed: Meets CDC criteria and positive test result received from a certified laboratory such as the DOH State Laboratories Division. *The CDC has advised states that respiratory samples positive for SARS-CoV2 in a state and public-health laboratory will be considered “positive” with no need for further testing. Presumptive Positive: Positive test results from a private laboratory requiring confirmation by a state public health laboratory. Persons Under Investigation (PUI): Meets CDC criteria for investigation and testing pending. Monitoring: Individuals voluntarily remain at home and refrain from work, school, gathering places, and public transit. They communicate daily with Department of Health staff. #COVID19 #Coronavirus #DOH #Health #DavidIge

Three new confirmed cases of COVID-19 identified on O‘ahu and Maui As of March 16, 2020, as of 3:30 pm, there are a total of 10 confirmed or presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 in Hawai‘i. Three new positive results were announced today for two O‘ahu residents, and one visitor on Maui. The Department of Health (DOH) is monitoring all of these individuals and supervising their isolation as well as the self-quarantine of their family members. COVID-19 testing is not for individuals who are well or experiencing mild to moderate flu-like symptoms To help manage available healthcare resources for the public statewide, DOH advises everyone to take the following steps: Stay home if you are experiencing mild to moderate flu-like symptoms. Call ahead to your healthcare provider before going to a healthcare facility. If your doctor would like you to come in for a screening, bring a photo ID and insurance card. If your doctor decides that you meet the criteria for COVID-19 testing, he or she will provide a lab order for the test and take the swab for testing. The specimen will be sent to a private or state lab for the results. List of screening sites statewide now available on DOH website A current list of Hawai‘i healthcare facilities offering screening for potential candidates for COVID-19 testing is now available on the DOH website at health.hawaii.gov/updates. A screening determines if a person meets the criteria for a COVID-19 test. The actual test involves taking a swab from the back a person’s nose and throat to test for the virus. Definitions of isolation and quarantine Isolation and quarantine help protect the public by preventing exposure to people who have or may have a contagious disease. Isolation separates sick people with a contagious disease from people who are not sick. Quarantine separates and restricts the movement of people who were exposed to a contagious disease to see if they become sick. DOH updates guidance on public events and group gatherings To protect the public’s health and wellbeing, the Hawa‘i Department of Health is recommending for the next eight weeks that large, crowded gatherings or public events of 50 or more attendees be postponed, canceled or held virtually. When possible, attendees should be about two-arms-length or six feet apart. Elderly adults and those with underlying health conditions who are at a greater risk for COVID-19 infection or respiratory illnesses should avoid attending public gatherings. DOE extends spring break through March 27 for all public and charter schools The Hawaiʻi State Department of Education (HIDOE) is extending its spring break through March 27 for all public and charter school students. DOE will use the additional time from March 23 to 27 to plan for the implementation of social distancing within the school setting, arrange for professional development to support modified operations, and thoroughly clean schools. View the news release online here. 2-1-1 Call Center for Information on COVID-19 The Aloha United Way call center is open daily between 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. For information or questions about COVID-19: Call 2-1-1 from any location in the state Text 877-275-6569 Email info211@auw.org Visit health.hawaii.gov/covid19 or coronavirus.gov COVID-19 Summary of Numbers as of March 16, 2020 at 3:30 p.m. (updated as new information becomes available) Number of Confirmed or Presumptive Positive Case(s)* 10 Number of Persons Under Investigation (current, testing pending) 7 Number of Persons Under Investigation (closed, testing negative) 86 Number of Person Self-Monitoring with DOH supervision 9 The 9 individuals who are self-monitoring with public health supervision are all on O‘ahu. These numbers fluctuate often as travelers arrive, depart, or begin and end their self-monitoring with supervision by DOH. Confirmed: Meets CDC criteria and positive test result received from a certified laboratory such as the DOH State Laboratories Division. *The CDC has advised states that respiratory samples positive for SARS-CoV2 in a state and public-health laboratory will be considered “positive” with no need for further testing. Presumptive Positive: Positive test results from a private laboratory requiring confirmation by a state public health laboratory. Persons Under Investigation (PUI): Meets CDC criteria for investigation and testing pending. Monitoring: Individuals voluntarily remain at home and refrain from work, school, gathering places, and public transit. They communicate daily with Department of Health staff. #COVID19 #Coronavirus #DOH #Health #WorldHealthOrganization #WHO #HawaiiSenate #CDC

Hawaii Attorney General Clare E. Connors and Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection Executive Director Stephen Levins are urging the Hawaii public to beware of, and report, scams and price gouging related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. “The public has to be extra cautious of those who would take advantage of our community in a crisis situation,” said AG Connors.” “We advise everyone to be vigilant, especially as we all work to ensure that everyone has access to necessities.” Hawaii consumers should be vigilant as scammers attempt to take advantage of the public’s fear of the health situation by setting up charity scam websites, offering bogus medical treatment claiming to cure or prevent COVID-19, and disseminating misinformation about the disease through social media, text messages, and emails. Watch for fraudulent emails claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or experts saying they have information about the virus. Verify information through trusted government websites such as www.ftc.gov, www.cdc.gov, health.hawaii.gov, www.who.int, etc. Do not click on links from sources you do not know as doing so may lead to computer viruses or phishing attempts. Ignore offers of goods or services for COVID-19. There currently are no vaccines, pills, potions, lotions, lozenges or other prescription or over-the-counter products available to treat or cure COVID-19. Scammers may still offer fake vaccines and other bogus medical products claiming to offer “cures” for the virus. They may also offer “get rich quick” investment schemes for unproven virus treatments. Beware of fundraising solicitations and do not rush into making donations whether through charities or crowdfunding sites. You should never feel rushed or pressured to donate, and never make donations in cash, by gift card, or by money wire. Be sure to do your due diligence to verify the charity’s legitimacy. Price gouging refers to sellers trying to take unfair advantage of consumers during an emergency or disaster by greatly increasing prices for essential consumer goods and services. “Price gouging will not be tolerated in the State of Hawaii,” said Stephen Levins. “All reports of price gouging are being fully investigated and anyone found to have engaged in the practice will be prosecuted. We’re all in this together and no one should be taking advantage of our community during these challenging times.” Even though the Office of Consumer Protection does not represent individuals, it may, on behalf of the public, investigate or prosecute someone who has engaged in price gouging. Anyone who believes that they have been the victim of price gouging, or who has information regarding potential price gouging, is encouraged to immediately file a complaint with the OCP by calling (808) 587-4272 or online at https://cca.hawaii.gov/ocp/consumer-complaint/. Finally, the public is urged not to hoard materials and supplies.  Much of the hoarding is being driven by false rumors.  Please shop for your weekly needs and leave items for other who need to do the same. #ScamAlert #ConsumerProtection #ClareConnors #PriceGouging #Coronavirus #COVID19

The Queen’s Health Systems is announcing several updates to the operations of its 4 hospitals and other facilities around the state effective today: VISITOR POLICY: The Queen’s Medical Center Punchbowl: *2 visitors per patient are welcome *Visiting hours are daily from 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. *Children under 12 years old are not allowed unless receiving care as a patient The Queen’s Medical Center - West O’ahu: *2 visitors per patient are welcome *Children under 12 years old are not allowed unless receiving care as a patient *Access Points: Main lobby, Emergency Department visitor entrance Molokai General Hospital: *2 visitors per patient are welcome *Children under 12 years old are not allowed unless receiving care as a patient Queen’s North Hawaii Community Hospital: *1 visitor per patient allowed in the hospital *Children under 12 years old are not allowed unless receiving care as a patient *Access Points: Front lobby 5:00 a.m.-8:30 p.m., Emergency Department (after hours) *Visitors who exhibit flu-like symptoms will not be allowed on inpatient areas. *You are encouraged to check with the individual units for any special instructions on visitor policies. #QueensHealthCare #Health #COVID19 #Coronavirus

Due to concerns caused by the novel coronavirus pandemic, Senators Rosalyn H. Baker (South and West Maui) and J. Kalani English (Hana, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka‘i, Lana‘i, Kaho‘olawe), and the Senate Committee on Ways and Means are postponing the public briefing for Grant-in-Aid applications until further notice. The hearing was originally scheduled for Saturday, March 21, 2020, from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the University of Hawai‘i Maui College, Ka Lama Building, room 103. Besides Senators Baker and English, Ways and Means Committee Chair Senator Donovan Dela Cruz (representing District 22 on O‘ahu) and Vice Chair Gilbert Keith-Agaran (Wailuku, Waihe‘e, Kahului) were going to be present at the public briefing. #GrantInAid #Maui #HawaiiSenate #COVID19 #Coronavirus

The supplemental emergency proclamation is posted online at: https://governor.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/2003109-ATG_COVID-19-Supplementary-Proclamation-signed.pdf Gov. David Y. Ige signed today a supplemental emergency proclamation adding provisions to protect the health and safety of the people of Hawaiʻi as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. “Across the globe and here in Hawaiʻi, we’re seeing disruptions to every aspect of our lives. As more cases are confirmed, events cancelled, and social distancing measures taken, it’s understandable that people are anxious. This supplemental emergency proclamation allows us to take unprecedented actions to protect the most vulnerable members of our community and ensure that medical resources are available to those who most need them,” said Gov. Ige. Gov. Ige announced that he has appointed Ken Hara, director, Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency, to be the incident commander. “This move aligns the state’s emergency response to the federal structure, and it brings added capacity and federal resources to help the state,” said Director Hara. The supplemental proclamation permits the governor to take the following actions: Suspend administrative procedures and Sunshine Law requirements to allow public meetings to be conducted electronically. All reasonable measures will be taken to ensure public participation that is consistent with recommended social distancing practices. Waive the one-week waiting period for Unemployment Insurance. Prevent hoarding of items needed for the public welfare. Gov. Ige praised healthcare providers for their extraordinary efforts to find and treat COVID-19 in Hawaiʻi. “Our private healthcare providers are proud to be part of this effort and will continue to work collaboratively with all our partners to serve the people of Hawaiʻi,” said Hilton Raethel, President and CEO, Healthcare Association of Hawaii. “This is an all-community effort. Each of us has a part to play. I know that when we work together, we can do great things,” said Gov. Ige. The supplemental emergency proclamation is effective until May 12, 2020. Source: https://governor.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/2003109-ATG_COVID-19-Supplementary-Proclamation-signed.pdf #COVID19 #Coronavirus #HILeg2020 #DavidIge #EmergencyProclamation

SPEAKER SCOTT K. SAIKI AND SENATE PRESIDENT RONALD D. KOUCHI ANNOUNCE IMMEDIATE SUSPENSION OF THE LEGISLATIVE SESSION TO TACKLE SPREAD OF COVID-19 AND PROTECT THE PUBLIC House Speaker Scott K. Saiki and Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi today announced that they are taking steps to prepare the State Legislature for actions needed to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and to protect the health and well-being of the public. One such immediate measure is the suspension of the legislative session indefinitely, starting on Tuesday, March 17. Last week the Director-General for the World Health Organization characterized COVID-19 as a pandemic, and President Trump proclaimed the COVID-19 outbreak a national emergency. This month Governor Ige issued an emergency proclamation that allows the state to work quickly to stop the spread of the disease. "We're currently at a point in the legislative session where key legislation is being advanced and members of the public feel compelled to be here to testify on important issues," said Speaker Saiki. "We want to protect those who would otherwise feel compelled to be here." The Hawaiʻi State Capitol is the primary workplace of the Governor, the Lt. Governor, and State lawmakers, as well as support agencies, including the Department of Accounting and General Services and the Department of Public Safety. "On any given day, hundreds of people visit and work at the State Capitol. To combat the spread of COVID-19, it is important that we limit gatherings, especially those involving vulnerable populations," said President Kouchi. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals practice "social distancing", which means remaining out of crowded public places where close contact with others may occur, avoiding mass gatherings, and maintaining distance—approximately 6 feet—from others when possible. In its COVID-19 Daily Update dated March 13, 2020, the Hawaiʻi Department of Health provides guidance on public events and group gatherings: The Department of Health is recommending gatherings held in enclosed spaces that do not allow social distancing also be postponed or canceled or held virtually. When possible, attendees should be about two-arms-length or six feet apart. Elderly adults and those with underlying health conditions who are at a greater risk for COVID-19 or respiratory illnesses should avoid attending large public gatherings. "Both chambers have consulted with their colleagues and decided this is the right thing to do in light of the current circumstances. This decision was made out of an abundance of caution and we will resume the session at a future date," said President Kouchi. "We appreciate the understanding and flexibility of the people of Hawaiʻi while we as a state work to prepare and protect our communities," added Speaker Saiki. Legislative leaders will be in contact with each other and will reassess the situation daily. Speaker Saiki and President Kouchi will declare through a signed memorandum the day and time to reconvene the session For State Department of Health COVID-19 updates, go to https://health.hawaii.gov/news/covid-19-updates/. For information from the Centers for Disease Control, go to https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html. #COVID19 #Coronavirus #SocialDistancing #HILeg2020 #WHO #DavidIge #JoshGreen #RonKouchi #ScottSaiki