The state Health Department reported nine new cases today for the island of Lanai, bringing the total on the island to 87, the first day of the island’s stay-at-home order.

Of the nine new cases, six positives came from the drive-thru surge testing event on Lanai last Saturday, according to Maui Mayor Mike Victorino in a news conference late this afternoon. The other three cases were tested separately from that event.

“I’m very confident of keeping it under control,” said Victorino. “I think the community realizes the importance of working together and having respect for each other. We have the National Guard as well as the Department of Health on the ground meeting with the various groups, especially our Polynesians…here are going to be more and more positive cases. I’m certain of that. However I think we’ve gotten the brunt of it and hopefully over the next week we’ll see a steady decline and leveling off, where the positivity rate will be dropping.”

Under the current stay-at-home order, effective through Nov. 11, Lanai residents and visitors may leave their home or place of lodging for essential work and activities only. Only one member should leave at a time, with the exception of those with children or disabled persons that cannot be left alone.

All travel is restricted to essential work or medical purposes only. All other travelers will be required to quarantine for 14 days.

A total of 2,747 tests have been administered on Lanai, so far, or about 87.7% of the island’s population, according to Maui County managing director Sandy Baz. The total positivity rate is at 3.13%.

Additional COVID-19 testing is scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday at Lanai Community Hospital.

Another drive-thru surge testing event is tentatively scheduled for 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday behind the Lanai administration building, pending weather conditions.

Everyone who has not been tested is encouraged to get tested, including more children.

“Many medical experts agree a second test would be nice for everybody,” said Victorino. “It’s free again. That ensures if you’re not quite infected and ready to show you had it, on the second test you have the result and you’ll have a better understanding.”

Appointments are encouraged by calling Straub at 565-6423 or Lanai Community Health Center at 565-6919.