Hawaii COVID-19 positivity rates and hospitalizations rise

COVID-19 positivity rates in Hawaii are increasing following a nearly year-long period of low activity. The Hawaii Department of Health reported a statewide average positivity rate of 9.0%, with higher rates observed in Kauai at 13.3% and Honolulu at 10.0%.

Hospitalizations have also risen, with a weekly average of 24 patients and an upward trend in new admissions. The state dashboard indicates a weekly average of two patients being admitted to the ICU. Additionally, an outbreak at Honoka‘a Hospital has affected approximately 35 long-term patients and 17 staff members, though no serious illnesses have been reported.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has classified Hawaii’s wastewater viral activity as high. Health officials recommend the 2026-27 vaccines, which target the XFG variant, for residents six months and older, particularly emphasizing healthcare workers and those previously unvaccinated.