KEY POINTS

  • Hawaii is set to reinforce its 14-day self-quarantine law to prevent the spread of COVID-19
  • The revamp mandate will restrict both residents and visitors from inter-island travel
  • Workers who need to travel are permitted provided that they sign an Interisland Declaration Form
  • Tourists are strongly advised to wear protective gear and observe proper social distancing

With worldwide efforts taking place to avoid the further spread of COVID-19, the state of Hawaii is reinforcing its 14-day self-quarantine protocol that will restrict all residents and visitors from inter-island travel.

The revised mandate exempts only “essential workers” and are permitted to travel. They must, however, sign an Interisland Declaration Form, while tourists are strongly advised to wear protective gear like face masks and observe proper social distancing, said Fox News.

On the other hand, employees who are not “performing their essential roles” are encouraged to self-quarantine and prohibit their visitors to enter their “quarantine locations.

Ko'Olina Beach Hawaii
Tourists and locals play on Ko'Olina beach on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. Bing said Hawaii was the most-searched travel destination for Americans in 2013. Reuters

Violators who are caught not complying with the new law will be charged with misdemeanor and a hefty fine of $5,000 or up to a year in prison, the outlet added.

Hawaii's new rule also came in the wake of the the state's first COVID-19 death Monday. Hawaii News Now reported that the patient was a senior citizen living in Oahu with a history of “multiple medical issues.”

The man was recently hospitalized due to non-COVID-19 reasons but later tested positive for the virus.

The recent move to contain the spread of the flu-like illness has drastically changed Hawaii's famous tourism agenda as mandatory self-quarantine laws are affecting both locals and visitors alike, said the Associated Press.