Hawaii Gov. Josh Green recently noted that the Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) reported a sharp rise in the recent rate of COVID-19 hospitalizations, with the number of total positive COVID-19 hospitalizations surging for the week of March 26.
According to a press release, for the week of March 26 through April 4, the number of positive COVID-19 hospitalizations increased from 39 to 74 patients, an 89.7% increase.
“Our hospitals still have capacity,” said State Epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Kemble, according to the press release. “However, it is a reminder of the ongoing circulation of COVID-19 in our community. Staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccines, including boosters, is the best defense against becoming seriously ill from COVID-19.”
DOH recommends that those that have not yet received a bivalent booster immediately should make it a point of getting one and an official updated recommendation is scheduled to be released soon for individuals at increased risk of suffering severe infection.
Individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms are strongly advised to get tested immediately and, if positive, to consult with their health care provider regarding a course of treatment, especially for individuals over the age of 50 and/or have an underlying medical condition.
In keeping with ongoing federal COVID relief efforts, Green recently signed a sixth emergency proclamation to further extend federal funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) emergency allotment benefits that were previously extended through late February, according to a press release.
“Hawai‘i’s families are heavily burdened by economic impacts of the pandemic as well as inflation and these additional SNAP benefits ensure access to nutritious food,” Green said, according to the press release.
Green was officially sworn in as the state’s ninth governor on Dec. 5. A doctor by trade, he previously served as a member of the House of Representatives, the Senate and as lieutenant governor.
