Several states are starting to see an uptick in Covid cases and hospitalizations leading up to the summer months. Over the last two weeks, Hawaii experienced a 64% increase in Covid hospitalizations, according to a recent update from Becker’s Hospital Review.
The figure puts Hawaii in the lead for most hospitalization increases, followed by Maine at 61% and Montana at 58%.
Data from the Healthcare Association of Hawaii shows 91 Covid hospitalizations statewide as of May 11th. The state also saw approximately 5,768 new Covid cases over the last seven days, according to Department of Health (DOH) data.
DOH data shows the Omicron variant continues to make up the overwhelming majority of cases. However, the Omicron subvariant BA.2.12.1 is also becoming more prevalent. First detected in Hawaii in early April, the subvariant now accounts for approximately 15% of cases.
DOH has not released additional Covid mitigation strategies as of May 12th. The statewide indoor mask mandate expired in late March, although Gov. David Ige at the time said, “the state will be ready to reinstitute the mask policy if COVID case numbers surge.”
Additional booster vaccine doses continue to be available through hawaiicovid19.com, although DOH is following CDC guidance and only recommends them for older and immunocompromised individuals.