Maui County Mayor Mike Victorino confirms first Hana coronavirus case

Maui County Mayor Michael Victorino confirmed today the first case of coronavirus in the isolated community of Hana.

Victorino said the county was notified early this morning of the positive test result for a female resident who has some travel history.

The individual is currently in self isolation and the state Department of Health is investigating and contacting those who may have been exposed to the highly contagious virus.

“I want to tell our Hana residents that we will be doing everything we can to protect their health and safety during these uncertain times,” he said. “Please stay home as much as possible and practice aloha. We will continue to face these challenges together.”

Senate Majority Leader J. Kalani English, who represents Hana, East and Upcountry Maui, Molokai, Lanai and Kahoolawe, said, “The first confirmed case of the coronavirus in Hāna is alarming and it is important for residents to stay calm during these challenging times. The preventative measures that we have taken at the state and county level is critical to slow further spread of the virus into remote areas of East Maui, where access to supplies and medical attention is limited.

“It is important for everyone to stay home and if you are sick or are showing symptoms, isolate yourself and contact your doctor immeditely. I will continue to coordinate efforts from my home here in Hamoa to ensure the health and safety of our people.”