Increased COVID-19 activity warned by DOH to public
COVID-19 Activity Surges in Hawaii, Exceeding Flu Levels
In the heart of July 2025, Hawaii is experiencing a surge in COVID-19 activity that exceeds flu levels in key measures. The Department of Health (DOH) has reported an increase in COVID-19 cases, test positivity, emergency room visits, and hospital admissions.
According to the state DOH, the current level of COVID-19 activity in Hawaii is at a "medium" level, indicating that the virus is circulating at higher levels than historical trends would suggest. The statewide test positivity rate for COVID-19 is currently 12.4%, an increase from 10.9% the previous week.
Emergency room visits due to COVID-19 are on the rise, particularly among young children under age 5. This trend is reflected in multiple states, including Hawaii.
The DOH advises several precautions to avoid getting sick from COVID-19. These include vaccination for all eligible persons aged 6 months and older, wearing a mask, covering your cough, staying home when sick, and getting tested for COVID-19 if displaying symptoms of the disease.
The current surge in COVID-19 activity in Hawaii outpaces influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in test positivity, emergency room visits, and hospital admissions. In contrast, influenza activity remains relatively low. National flu surveillance data for week 29 of 2025 shows a small number of positive flu specimens compared to the previous season.
However, no specific information about the number of cases or deaths due to COVID-19 in Hawaii was provided. Additionally, no new information about specific measures being taken to address the increase in COVID-19 activity in Hawaii was disclosed.
The DOH's statements serve as a reminder that COVID-19 remains a health concern in the community, and it is crucial for everyone to take reasonable precautions to protect themselves and others.
The surge in COVID-19 activity in Hawaii surpasses both flu levels and other medical-conditions, like RSV, in test positivity, emergency room visits, and hospital admissions, demonstrating the ongoing impact of the disease on the community's health-and-wellness. The Department of Health continues to emphasize the importance of science-based precautions, such as vaccination, mask-wearing, and testing, to maintain a healthy community.
