No-shows leave COVID-19 test gaps

News Release from Maui County, Dec 27, 2021

Personnel at COVID-19 test sites are reporting that many individuals who made appointments are failing to show up as scheduled.

“With the skyrocketing surge of the highly contagious Omicron variant, our community needs COVID-19 testing to identify cases early, keep infected people isolated at home and slow the spread of the virus,” Mayor Michael Victorino said. “Individuals who do not show up for scheduled appointments deny a testing opportunity for someone else. Please malama our community and show up for testing appointments as scheduled. If you can’t make it, please cancel ahead of time.

Testing is recommended for anyone who might have flu-like symptoms of COVID-19; those who have been in contact with an infected person; or those who traveled off-island recently. Check with a local pharmacy on the availability of at-home test kits or visit www.mauinuistrong.info for a nearby test site or vaccination clinic.

Experts say getting vaccinated against COVID-19 and following up with a booster shot provide the best protection against the virus. The first course of vaccinations (two Pfizer and Moderna shots or one Johnson & Johnson shot) loses strength in protecting against the virus after about six months.

Other ways to protect the health and safety of our community include wearing facial coverings, watching physical distancing from those outside your household, avoiding large gatherings, staying home when not feeling well and washing hands frequently.

“The virus does not give extra credit for good behavior,” Mayor Victorino said. “You can do everything right 364 days of the year. Then, drop your guard on one day, and the virus is waiting for its opportunity to infect you.”