Kawakami Signs Coronavirus Emergency Proclamation

Graphic image by Mikael Häggström, used with permission

Mayor Derek Kawakami has signed an emergency proclamation on March 4 for the County of Kaua‘i, in order to provide for the health, safety and welfare of the people of Kaua‘i from the potential spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), according to a county news release.

The proclamation was issued in coordination with the Governor’s Office and fellow counties.

“We continue to work with our county, state, and federal partners, as well as the private sector, in coordination and response to updates on COVID-19,” Kawakami said. “While there are still no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Hawai‘i, it is necessary that our County officials prepare for any possible impacts, and this emergency proclamation allows us to do that.”

The mayor’s emergency proclamation authorizes the County of Kaua‘i to take immediate action to mitigate the potential impacts of COVID-19. It allows the county to be proactive in establishing a plan for officials to mobilize resources if and when needed.

The disaster emergency relief period shall continue until terminated 60 days after March 4, or by a separate proclamation – whichever comes first.

“Residents and visitors should continue to stay informed, prepare an emergency supply kit, and practice preventative health measures,” Kawakami said. “This is the best defense for you and your family against the potential spread of the virus.”

The State Department of Health recommends the following to help prevent the spread of respiratory illness:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from illnesses, including COVID-19. Keep in mind that supplies are limited and we need to make sure there are enough masks for our front-line health care workers. If you are sick then wear a mask to protect the people around you.
• Prepare for the possibility that people may want to stay home or may be asked to stay home to prevent the spread of illness.
• If you have daily medication needs, have more than a week’s supply on hand and have as much on hand as your insurance will allow you to have.
• Not everyone can afford to stock up on supplies or has the space to store them, but anything you can arrange in advance means one less inconvenience or one less trip to the store while you are sick.
• Make family plans for the possibility of school or day care closures. Do some contingency planning in advance at the family level.

To view a copy of the emergency proclamation, visit the County of Kaua‘i’s website at www.kauai.gov/KEMA.

For more information and to sign up for daily updates from the State Department of Health relating to current COVID-19 information, visit https://health.hawaii.gov/news/covid-19-updates/.