Heading to Hawaii? What travelers should know
Starting on Aug. 1, Hawaii requires proof of a negative coronavirus test for visitors to avoid a 14-day quarantine.
Hawaii Gov. David Ige announced the requirement on June 24. Visitors to the state will also be required to undergo a temperature check. Anyone with a temperature of 100.4 degrees will undergo a secondary screening at the airport. Travelers will also be asked to fill out a questionnaire.
“The health of our community remains our primary focus. This multilayered pre-travel testing and screening process allows travelers an alternative to the 14-day travel quarantine,” Ige said in a statement.
Here are some common questions and answers:
What’s going to be required?
Out-of-state visitors to Hawaii should plan to get a valid test for coronavirus before traveling to the state. Visitors must show printed or emailed proof of a negative test.
What type of test do I need?
A nasal-swab test processed by a laboratory designated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Can I get tested when I arrive?
No. The test must be taken prior to arrival. Testing will not be provided at the airport.
Do I have to pay for it?
Yes.
I’m a resident, does this apply to me?
Yes. Hawaii residents leaving the state should be prepared to quarantine at their residence for 14 days upon return or present a negative test result.
Are there exceptions?
Yes, though they will not apply to most people. Visitors who have been at sea on a recreational boat for 14 days where nobody on board has experienced COVID-19 symptoms are exempt. So are critical infrastructure workers and those traveling to the state for medical care.
How far ahead do I need to take the test?
Visitors must take the test within 72 hours of travel to Hawaii.
Are there penalties?
Violating the quarantine order is a criminal offense subject to a $5,000 fine and/or a year of imprisonment. Hawaii has been aggressive about enforcement.
Is Hawaii a hot spot for infections?
No. In fact, Hawaii has the lowest rate of infection and death of any U.S. state and wants to keep it that way.