LIHUE — Governor David Ige closed churches, clubs, theaters and bars statewide on Tuesday, limited restaurants to drive-through, take-out, pick-up or delivery only and limited social gatherings to 10 people or less to follow Centers for Disease Control guidelines to limit the spread of COVID-19.
Tuesday, the state also temporarily closed state libraries, “strongly” encouraged visitors to not fly to Hawai‘i for the next 30 days, and suggested all tour activities to shut down statewide for the next 15 days, and said airports are gearing up to begin screening.
“We expect more stringent actions in the days to come. These are difficult times, but Hawai‘i has a history of coming together when faced with challenges. I’m confident that together we will rise to the task,” said Ige on Tuesday.
The number of presumed positive cases of COVID-19 jumped to 14 in Hawai‘i on Tuesday, with two individuals still in isolation in Kaua‘i and new cases confirmed on O‘ahu, Hawai‘i Island and Maui.
Currently Hawai‘i Department of Health advises the public follow Centers for Disease Control social distancing guidelines and that those feeling sick stay home and contact their health care provider via phone as a first step, then follow the health care provider’s directions to get screened from there.
There are three COVID-19 screening sits on Kaua‘i — at the Kauai Veterans Memorial Hospital, the Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital and Wilcox Memorial Hospital — all patients are required to have a physicians recommendation, insurance card and a photo ID to be tested for COVID-19.
The state Department of Land and Natural Resources shut down all state parks and in-person visits at most offices statewide on Tuesday.
Combined with the county’s closure of county parks, that effectively shuts down camping and parks activities on Kaua‘i.
“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,” said DLNR Chair Suzanne Case.
That closure also extends to offices with the Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation — as well as public restrooms in DOBOR harbors.
Meanwhile, County of Kaua‘i announced changes in standard operating procedures for customer service and is now directing the public to conduct business via email related to real property tax collections, real property assessments, and motor vehicle registrations. Driver’s licensing is by appointment only. Contact County of Kaua‘i or visit their website for further information.
The Kauai County Council committee meeting, scheduled for today, is canceled as well.
For symptoms, recommendations and further information on COVID-19, visit the websites of the state Department of Health or the CDC.
So it’s not safe for people to be out camping due to social distancing concerns, but schools, where children are crowded 20-30 in a classroom, will remain open. Yes, that makes very clear sense.