10 COVID-19 Cases at Harbor Lights on Maui, Testing Pushed to Dec. 31

Update: 1:44 p.m., Dec. 30, 2020

COVID-19 testing at the Harbor Lights condominium complex in Kahului has been pushed to Thursday, Dec. 31, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. County officials say the cleaning of public areas at the complex has not yet occurred as crews are awaiting proper authorizations. Earlier this week, state and county officials confirmed 10 cases have been identified in individuals at the complex through initial assessment.

Previous Post: Dec. 28, 2020

Maui County officials confirmed a cluster of COVID-19 infections at the Harbor Lights condominium complex in Kahului.

Maui District Health Officer, Dr. Lorrin Pang said 10 cases have been identified through initial assessment and efforts are currently being made to determine the extent of the cluster.

He said the same complex dealt with mumps infections three years ago and did a “stunning” job compared to the rest of the state in controlling the spread. He used the example in making a point that the community can be successful in getting the situation under control.

The information was shared during an afternoon press briefing on Monday in response to a question posed by The Maui News.

Maui Mayor Michael Victorino said deep cleaning is currently underway with specific public areas being cleaned. Minit Medical will also be on site on Wednesday with mobile testing, according to Mayor Victorino.

He said that he hopes this serves as a reminder to those living there, to wear a mask, keep physical distancing and maintain good hygiene.  

“I’ve been very sensitive of telling people of different places unless it’s been publicly announced,” said Mayor Victorino, noting that through questioning, it’s now public knowledge and the county can talk about it. “But this goes for everybody–wearing a mask, doing your six W’s, good hygiene, physical distancing and keeping small gatherings is really pivotal for this holiday season.”

Mayor Victorino said he has requested changes to Maui’s Emergency Rules. “There may be some changes with business. Travel guidelines will still remain the same, and there may be some more stricter regulations for visitors and returning residents coming in. Those are all being finalized and we need to have approval from the governor,” said Mayor Victorino.

He said he’s hoping to get approval for a change in gathering size from 10 people to 5 people, in order to keep gatherings smaller.  He was unsure if the request would be approved; and if it would be in effect for New Year’s.  

According to the latest mapping updates provided by the state Department of Health the newly reported infections on Maui include: 10 cases in Kahului, two in Kīhei, and one in Kula.