HI-EMA Reminds Residents to Avoid Gatherings of Five or More

Hawai’i Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA) is strongly urging residents to avoid gatherings of five or more people during the holidays, as COVID-19 positive case counts continue to surge across the country.

The recommendation comes after the state reported more than 200 new COVID-19 cases in Hawaiʻi on Sunday, including 180 on O‘ahu, 11 on Maui and 13 on Hawaiʻi Island.

“Coming together with friends and family is an important tradition during Christmas and the New Year, but in these dangerous times, actively protecting each other from the virus should be a top priority,” the organization said in a press release.

“Do not congregate in groups larger than five people and if you must gather socially, make sure it is only with members of your household,” HI-EMA advised.

The agency recommends that the public continue safe practices—especially when last minute shopping this season—”by properly wearing a mask over both your mouth and nose, washing your hands frequently, and maintaining a physical distance of at least six feet apart.”

“I challenge you all to find safer ways to celebrate this holiday season,” said HI-EMA Administrator, Luke Meyers. “Spread love and joy, not COVID.” 

“The mainland is setting records numbers each day in new COVID-19 cases, hospital capacity overloads, and fatalities. On Sunday, our own numbers once again climbed into the two hundreds. Keeping your family, friends, and our islands safe during this pandemic is all our responsibilities. Please do your part to prevent a surge in Hawai’i,” HI-EMA advised.

For more information, visit hawaiicovid19.com.