Josh Green, Hawaii’s Lieutenant Governor who is responsible for the visitor COVID testing program, has just held a press conference. His answers were in direct conflict, albeit respectfully couched, with the mayors of Oahu, Maui, and Kauai. From today’s earlier post, you know that they are requesting a second test be required 72 hours after arrival, with visitors staying in quarantine until the time of the 2nd test’s results. We said this morning, however, that all this could be changing as soon as today. That appears be the case, although there is no formal announcement yet.
The lieutenant governor said that the State of Hawaii’s realities of testing conflict with the desires of Kauai’s mayor. Thus he said, it not practical to have 2nd tests at this time.
How many tourists does Hawaii expect will be arriving at the restart of travel? Green said he expects to see 5,000-8,000 passengers per day arrive initially in Hawaii. At this time, however, there is a maximum capacity of 4,000 COVID tests throughout Hawaii, including for priority medical reasons.
What about interisland travel? Green said that if you fly directly to a neighbor island, there should be no quarantine. If you fly into Oahu first, depending on final decisions, you would likely have to obtain another test at the neighbor island. He did not address those who are merely transiting via HNL but not staying in Honolulu.Â
How will visitors get testing information from the state? A new website with all information related to travel and related testing is found at https://hawaiicovid19.com/. That website is going to be updated daily. Green said that there will also be phone service available to speak with Hawaii representatives and get answers to questions.Â
Which companies can offer tests that will be accepted in Hawaii? COVID testing for Hawaii travel can only be from what Green called trusted partners. He restated that multiple times. There are currently 12 partners including one at Walmart and more will be coming. Partners also include CVS, Walgreens, and Kaiser (which Green said will offer free testing).
What tests will be approved? There was not a complete list of approved tests provided, although Green mentioned that the Abbott IDNow rapid test has been approved. No antibody or antigen tests will be accepted.
When must tests be taken? Within 72 hours of the flight that takes you from the mainland to Hawaii. The first tests start on October 12 for travel starting October 15.
What about flight delays. Delays that are out of passengers’ control will be accommodated.
What is the minimum age requiring testing? Persons under age 5 do not require testing. The rationale for this is if they are sick their parents will test positive according to public health officials.
What about the state’s phone app. Adults 18 and over must register on the SafeTravels app. Green did not say how those without technology would be accommodated. The Safe travels app will also serve as proof of testing for law enforcement etc.
What happens when someone does not have their test results on arrival in Hawaii? If a visitor arrives with no test results, they will quarantine until results are obtained. Visitors will be out of quarantine as soon as the negative test result is uploaded.
Next updates. We do expect to hear from the governor this week. He is in discussions with county mayors on reopening issues. Lastly, Green said there will be a comprehensive press conference on Tuesday, October 6.
The Inter Island Quarantine rules for critical trade workers needs upgrading. We are willing to do the testing procedures, however we are concerned the tourists will gobble up the test availability while we are on another Island and leave us in a modified quarantine situation. Our employees are willing to sacrifice, but not succumb to the inability to function in their daily lives. We are at the tipping point of us going to the Unemployment Division where at least we will have a way to plan our future with our families.
Iam confirmed on United I will test in SFO to go on to Kona Iam a returning resident I need to get there on 15th my flight has been rescheduled already hope its still ago on 15thIam flying Buf/ORD/SFO /KOA
I am a resident of Hawaii. I want to return on 16 Oct. Do I have to get an abbott rapid test from a walgreens or such Can I go to an Urgent Care which accepts Kaiser For my test The stores listed have no idea of whats going on.