The number of people who have tested positive for COVID-19 in Hawaii rose to 56 on Sunday.

That’s eight more cases compared with Saturday, according to data released by the state Department of Health Sunday afternoon.

The health department reported six more positive test results on Oahu, an increase to 41 from 35. Maui County had evidence of two more cases, which increased the total from seven to nine.

Lists of criteria are outlined on boards placed along Ilalo Street for Coronavirus screening.
Lists of criteria are outlined on boards placed along Ilalo Street for coronavirus screening. Cory Lum/Civil Beat/2020

The department said there’s no evidence of more cases in Hawaii County, where the total number of reported cases has held at three since Friday. Kauai reported no new positive test results, which keeps the island’s total at three.

Three of the coronavirus patients have been hospitalized, and none have died.

The actual number of COVID-19 cases likely exceeds the number reported by the Health Department because of limited testing.  According to the department, not all people experiencing symptoms of the virus need to be tested. The test sample includes results from the department and private labs.

In addition to testing some people showing symptoms, the state conducts surveillance tests on a random sample of people.

Although more than 80% of COVID-19 cases involve Hawaii residents returning from trips outside the state, the department said, at least one recently identified case had no known contact with travelers. That represents the first indication of community spread of the illness.

The department recommends residents practice social distancing, which entails staying at least 6 feet from other people.

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