LIHU‘E — In line with federal recommendations, the state has revised its COVID-19 isolation and quarantine policies, according to the state Department of Health.
This week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shortened its isolation period from 10 days to five for those who develop the coronavirus and close contacts.
“We are adopting the CDC recommendations as one part of our effort to blunt the current very-rapid spread of the omicron variant,” DOH State Epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Kemble said in a statement. “These guidelines are practical to implement, making it easier for people to do the right thing. The guidance also acknowledges the waning immunity we are seeing with time after initial vaccination.”
Under the new rules that take effect on Monday in Hawai‘i, individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19, regardless of vaccination status, must isolate for at least five days and remain in isolation until symptoms disappear. Mask-wearing is required for five days after isolation.
Those who have been boosted or fully vaccinated within the past six months (or within two months for those who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine) do not need to quarantine if exposed to COVID-19, but must wear a face mask for 10 days and get tested on day five.
Those who are not vaccinated and are also not boosted but have been exposed to COVID-19 must quarantine for five days, wear a mask for five days after that and get tested on the fifth day.
“The new policies underscore the benefits of booster shots,” DOH Director Dr. Elizabeth Char said. “People who are boosted and do not have symptoms will not need to quarantine after exposure to someone who is COVID positive.”
According to the DOH COVID-19 dashboard, about 74% of the state has completed vaccination. However, only about 339,457 booster dosages have been administered.
“As we learn more about this pandemic, we continue to adapt to make sure we’re following up-to-date best practices,” Gov. David Ige said Wednesday during a press conference. “I know that this has been tough for all of us here in the islands, with many changes, twists and turns.”
The recommendations, however, come in the middle of a current spike in cases linked to the omicron variant, which, early data has suggested, is more easily transmissible.
Healthcare Association of Hawai‘i President and CEO Hilton Raethel said Wednesday that, as of yesterday, there were 127 COVID-19 patients hospitalized in the state.
“At the peak of the delta variant surge in August and September it was 436 patients,” Raethel said in a statement.
“The greater infectiousness of the omicron variant of the coronavirus means we could reach that peak very soon, within just two weeks or less. Even with breakthrough infections, most of the people with COVID in the hospital are not vaccinated or boosted.”
HAH asks that people refrain from large gatherings until the end of January at least.
“Gather outside if possible. Please wear a mask in indoor venues when not eating or drinking. Practice social distancing. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water,” Raethel said. “We still urge people to get vaccinated and, if eligible, get a booster.”
This story was updated at 6:54 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 30, 2020, for clarity.
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Sabrina Bodon, editor, can be reached at 245-0441 or sbodon@thegardenisland.com.
Oh really now? How’s the goal post shift here. I thought trust the science….no longer fuller vaccinated unless you have been boosted with more of the same leaky ineffective vaccine. Shameful display of politicization.