Maui County Suffers Its First COVID-19 Related Death

The Hawai‘i Department of Health has confirmed the first COVID-19 related death in Maui County, Mayor Michael Victorino announced this morning.

“My heart is heavy with this tragic news,” Mayor Victorino said. “Mrs. Victorino and I offer our deepest condolences to this individual’s family and know that our community will also offer support and love during this difficult time.”

According to the Department of Health, the individual was an older male resident with underlying health conditions.  The Maui man was over 65-years-old and is the fifth person in Hawai‘i to pass away from COVID-19.

DOH is still investigating the circumstances behind the man’s death. Department officials say he did have exposure to travelers, but it’s not known whether this was a risk factor associated with his death.

Mike Rembis, Chief Executive Officer of Maui Health, provided the following statement:

“We want to express our deepest condolences to this individual’s family and friends,” Rembis said. “We ask our community to continue to rally around each other in support, to respect our Mayor’s stay-at-home-orders, and adhere to guidelines for social distancing, handwashing and hygiene. We will continue to do our part and protect our patients and staff. “

“Our Maui County ohana is strong and we must support and protect each other,” Mayor Victorino said. “Everyone must stay home and only go out in public for essential purposes. Now is not the time for parties and gatherings. If you do have to leave home, make sure you wear a mask and practice social distancing.

“We love this community and our county. I will be with all of you every step of the way through this pandemic, but we’re going to need everyone’s help to keep our families and loved ones safe.”

There are a total of 387 cases reported in Hawai’i since Feb. 28, 2020.  Of the 16 new cases today, one is a minor (below 18-years-old) and the other 15 are adults. Five of the new reported cases are travel-associated, two are community related, and nine are unknown at this time.