NAWILIWILI — A large COVID-19 cluster is linked to King’s Chapel in Nawiliwili, the Hawai‘i Department of Health announced Saturday morning.
The cluster, linked to youth group and Halloween activities, has grown to 36 cases as of Friday. Cases range from those under 2 years old to 60. Transmission has grown beyond the immediate King’s Chapel community.
People who attended events hosted by King’s Chapel Nawiliwili on or after Oct. 31, especially youth group activities, are encouraged to get tested for COVID-19.
King’s Chapel Nawiliwili hosted a “Trunk or Treat” event on Halloween. Anyone who attended this event, especially anyone who was un-masked or who interacted for 15 minutes or more with others, should get tested, the DOH noted.
Cases associated with the church were identified as a cluster on Nov. 8, with cases dating back at least to Oct. 31, the DOH said. Since then, the DOH has worked with affected individuals, families and with church representatives to recommend containment measures including isolation, quarantine, switching to virtual services and other prevention measures.
The cluster has increased from 16 cases when first detected, to 36, including four secondary cases in household contacts. More cases are expected to be identified as the investigation and testing continue.
“DOH discloses cluster locations when there is an imminent risk to public health. Based on the findings of our investigation, we believe disclosure is warranted to prevent further transmission of the disease,” State Epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Kemble said in a release.
Kaua‘i has the highest per capital case count in the state, with a rise in the last two weeks.
Anyone who feels ill should be tested. Equally important, anyone who attended a King’s Chapel function on or after Oct. 31 or believes they may have been exposed should get tested. Testing is widely available on Kaua‘i. Visit Kauai.gov/COVIDtest for details of testing options.
Kaua‘i DOH staff will work with anyone who tests positive to minimize their risk of exposing others. DOH will assist with accessing care, including monoclonal antibody treatment to decrease severity of illness.
DOH encourages everyone five years of age and older who is not yet vaccinated to consider getting vaccinated before the holidays.
